B&Q is closed in Sheffield – but here's how you can still pick up essential repair items

But people can still buy the items necessary to make vital home repairs while the country is in lockdown.

The public has been told they must not leave their homes other than for a handful of reasons – these include travelling to and from work if required, shopping for necessary items, taking one form of exercise a day, providing support for a vulnerable person, or for a medical need.

Shops deemed to be non-essential have been ordered to close. Hardware stores are exempt from this rule, but B&Q’s outlets on Penistone Road and Queens Road have still stopped customers from browsing for the time being.

How can I buy items from B&Q?

Customers are now only able to purchase things for home delivery, or via a revised click and collect service. The latter option works on a ‘contact-free’ basis – people are asked to only visit their chosen store once they have received an email confirming their order is ready. Then customers should call their designated shop 15 minutes before they arrive, and staff will arrange to bring their items to a special collection point in the car park.

What can I buy from the DIY chain?

B&Q’s website, DIY.com, is open for business. Only a limited range of products is available for home delivery to limit ‘unnecessary purchases’.

Graham Bell, the firm’s CEO, explained: “We have been working hard to create a service that focuses on providing essential products for repair and maintenance of the home. This means we can keep supplies open and give our customers the best possible service to ensure their homes are safe, warm and in working order.”

How long will the stores be closed?

B&Q’s Sheffield stores will remain shut until official directives change.

Mr Bell said: “We are continuing to review and make changes to the limited list of items we sell to ensure we are able to meet customers’ needs in these challenging times while keeping colleagues and customers safe.

“We urge you to follow all the Government’s social distancing guidelines and to shop responsibly for essential needs only.”

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