'Now is not the time to start counting the pennies' - Sheffield business leaders react to PM's roadmap announcement

Speaking following the Prime Minister’s roadmap announcement, Alexis Krachai, interim executive director at Sheffield Chamber said: “It was important that the Prime Minister announced the route out of lockdown and the easing of restrictions. We cannot live like this forever and business need to be able to plan to reopen to protect jobs and livelihoods.

“The reality is the UK, like the rest of the world, needs to find a way of living with this virus. The amazing development and roll out of new vaccines are a gamechanger. We have reasons to be positive after a hugely difficult year.”

“Despite the light at the end of the tunnel we are not out of this yet. The Chancellor has a hugely important role to play in making sure businesses are supported until the economy is back up and running. People also need better financial support if they need to isolate and cannot work from home. The UK has spent £400bn fighting Covid-19. Now is not the time for the government to start counting the pennies.”

Louisa Harrison-Walker, also an interim executive director at Sheffield Chamber said: “We are not out of the woods yet, but the arrival of vaccines mean we can hopefully start planning for the future. That future can be really positive, but only if the city pulls together.

"Every organisation, business and community group from Dore to Darnall has an important role to play in shaping the future. Many businesses across Sheffield are battered and bruised but the business community is ready to step up and work with the new leaders in the town hall to shape a brighter future for everyone in the city. Covid-19 will leave deep and painful scars, but it could also mark a moment when Sheffield decided to really up its game.”

Boris Johnson last night announced that all schools would return on March 8 and lockdown would be eased in a series of steps up to June when, all being well, restrictions would be lifted.

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Thank you. Nancy Fielder, editor.