Isle of Man removes social distancing restrictions for public next week

Island takes step after 22 consecutive days without a new coronavirus case

People on the Isle of Man will no longer have to practice social distancing in public places from next week, officials have said.

The measure – aimed at limiting the spread of coronavirus – will be scrapped from Monday.

The Isle of Man’s chief minister announced the decision after the island saw its 22nd day without a new Covid-19 case.

“We know this is a bold step,” Howard Quayle said, adding: “We believe it is the right one at the right time.”

There were 336 confirmed coronavirus infections on the island as of Thursday afternoon, according to official figures.

Twenty-four people have died after contracting Covid-19 on the Isle of Man to date – six of those in hospital.

Announcing the end to social distancing rules next week, Mr Quayle said: “We want to get out of these restrictions as soon as we can. We want to get our society and economy going.”

The two-metres rule will remain in place in health and care environments, including residential care homes.

Mr Quayle said social distancing could revert to one metre if cases increase again to a level of concern.

The island started easing some of its lockdown restrictions towards the end of April, letting some businesses reopen as long as they followed social distancing rules.

The number of people allowed to meet outdoors will increase from 10 to 30 from 15 June, the island's government has said.

Additional reporting by Press Association