Covid-safe events to be tested in Liverpool

The city of Liverpool will be among the test-beds for the Events Research Programme (ERP) that will inform the government’s Roadmap out of Lockdown.

The Government is working with organisers to invite spectators to test events including small and large-scale music, comedy and outdoor performances. Local authorities will be involved in decisions on the number of spectators allowed into the pilot events.

The research, due to take place in take place in April, will determine when venues and events can reopen safely without social distancing. It will test elements such as layout of the venue, face coverings and ventilation.

Current social distancing measures will remain in place until the outcome of that review are known.

Liverpool’s Director of Culture, Claire McColgan, said: “Our experience as the pilot city for mass testing means we have the knowledge and infrastructure in place to deliver complicated projects safely, and we really hope we can help provide the evidence needed to ensure the wider sector is able to open across the country in the coming months.”