In an announcement this afternoon (Tuesday), Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed that the economy would begin to reopen and people across Scotland would start to feel an increased sense of normality.

For many businesses, it will the first time they have been able to open this year after Scotland entered a Level 4 lockdown on Boxing Day.

But as well as the easing of restrictions, travel to other parts of the UK will be allowed, as well as to Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands and Isle of Man.

What has been eased?

Alongside the restrictions that have been eased so far, hospitality venues, such as bars, restaurants and cafes, will be able to reopen from Monday with one-metre physical distancing required as per the guidance.

Under Level 3, they will be able to open outdoors where alcohol can be consumed until 10pm. No alcohol can be consumed indoors and venues must close indoors at 8pm. Socialising indoors is limited to six people from two households and six from six households outdoors.

All shops, stores and close contacts services (including mobile services) can reopen, as can visitor attractions and public buildings.

Gyms and sports centres can also reopen for individual exercise, as can outdoor organised activities, but outdoor contact sport for adults has not yet resumed.

Visits to people in hospital are recommended to be at least one per patient, with additional visitors at the discretion of hospital management.

Visits to care homes will from Monday be a recommended minimum of two indoor visits per week, one person at a time, again with additional visitors being at the discretion of each care home.

The numbers of people able to attend weddings and funerals will increase to 50 ,with receptions after each event allowed, also with a maximum of 50.

Tourist accommodation is also able to reopen, but in-house socialising rules must be followed under Level 3.

All children will be able to return to school from Monday and adults who are shielding can also return to work.

What has not been eased?

Leisure venues, such as theatres and concert halls, and stadiums are not yet able to reopen, people are encouraged to continue working from home where possible and indoor socialising is still prohibited.

What is next?

Should the data continue to go in the right direction, Scotland will enter Level 2 restrictions on May 17, when socialising numbers will increase, alcohol can be consumed in indoor hospitality venues, all sport will be allowed except indoor adult contact sport, leisure and entertainment venues can reopen, and stadiums can welcome back fans.