THE COVERED Market will remain open during the lockdown, Oxford City Council has said.

The market can stay open for customers as shops there provide ‘essential’ retail such as fresh produce, takeaways and click-and-collect services.

The council said it is continually working with market traders to ensure it remains accessible over the lockdown period.

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Due to lockdown restrictions, all non-essential retailers, as well as pubs and restaurants, must close.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Many Covered Market traders continue to offer products for home delivery, please check with individual traders for details.

“Non-essential shops are closed, but many are operating online.

“Individual traders' contact details can be found on the Covered Market traders page.”

The council has also ensured that local businesses unable to open due to the coronavirus restrictions will be supported.

The Government furlough scheme will continue to run until the end of April 2021 to support businesses during this time.

The council has also ensured that money allocated for business grants under Tier 4 restrictions will also continue to be administrated.

It added: “The business team will ensure local businesses are made aware of any new funding the Council is able to help them apply for, including the new retail, hospitality and leisure top-up grants announced by the Chancellor.”

In a further announcement about how lockdown restrictions will affect the public in Oxford, the council has said it will work to enforce ‘responsibility for the lockdown restrictions’.

The council is working alongside Thames Valley Police in the case of house parties, illegal social gatherings, or businesses trading when they should not be.

Residents wanting to report any of the above are advised to call the council or email saferoxford@oxford.gov.uk