BRADFORD South MP Judith Cummins has welcomed the reopening of business across Bradford which had been shut by local coronavirus restrictions.

A number of businesses - including gyms, swimming pools, skating rinks, bowling alleys and indoor play areas – are allowed to reopen from today.

Last week, the MP presented a petition on behalf of gym and fitness facility owners in Parliament last week calling on them to be reopened.

The beauty industry in Bradford is now also allowed to carry out ‘close-contact’ procedures, such as treatments on the face, eyebrow threading and make-up application, which had been banned under local restrictions.

Mrs Cummins recently visited Gloss & Glow Wibsey to see the work the industry had been doing in order to reopen safely.

Owner Kayleigh Leadbeater said: “Keeping everyone safe in during the Covid-19 pandemic is really important to me.

"I find it difficult to understand the order in which the Government relaxed the business restrictions, but I am pleased we are now able to fully reopen including close-contact services.

"The beauty and aesthetics industry is a highly professional, safe and valuable sector of the economy. I was using PPE before the lockdown, and like many others in the industry have donated my stocks to frontline keyworkers. “

Mrs Cummins added: “It is very good news that local businesses such as gyms can now reopen and that beauty businesses can offer a full range of services.

“I know that these businesses take seriously the need to ensure the highest level of hygiene and safety during these difficult times. 

“Many local businesses are still struggling, and they deserve more targeted support from the Government.”