A BUSY shopping centre has announced its reopening strategy, featuring a one-way system, queue control, new signage and dedicated hygiene stations.

Lion Walk Shopping Centre in Colchester is working on proposals on how to reopen, once Government advice allows it to do so.

According to data from European neighbours, the shopping centre could expect a footfall return of around 70 per cent once lockdown rules are relaxed further.

This will mean about 5,000 visitors during peak periods and a raft of new measures are being drawn up to try to keep shoppers safe.

These include a one way system advised by floor signage, which will direct customers to use one side of the shopping centre, depending on which direction they are heading.

To control queues, barriers and shop stewards are set to be utilised at busy periods.

Five hygiene stations are set to be created in Culver Street East, Red Lion Yard, Lion Walk with two in Culver Walk.

Additional signage, advising customers to stay 2m apart, will also be installed in walkways and empty units.

Removable outside seating will remain in storage until the Government says they should be returned.

Digital advertising stations will provide advice to customers, and the new rules will be promoted on social media.

Centre manager Martin Leatherdale said: “This plan has been produced onsite in consultation with the landlord and property management teams.

“The plan has received great appraisal from the communities directorship team at Colchester Council, Our Colchester BID, and indeed our Police Chief Inspector has cascaded to his business support team as the gold standard to benchmark across the county.”

Feedback on the plan is being invited and tenants are being asked to complete a questionnaire on plans.

Mr Leatherdale said he understood there would be some apprehension amongst firms but said all feedback was welcome.

“I look forward to feedback, especially around timelines to reopening, and supporting each other to be the best we can be as we move forward together with this unprecedented journey,” he added.