Prominent Chamber of Commerce leaders have cautiously welcomed prime minister Boris Johnson's roadmap to come out of the latest Covid-19 lockdown but have called for more tangible support to ensure Hadleigh businesses can survive.

Mr Johnson announced dates for reopening pubs, shops, restaurants and hairdressers as well as when sporting events can begin to take place.

While the PM's plans show a way ahead, there are concerns his announcement does not go far enough in providing certainty and some Hadleigh High Street business bosses have already said they may not reopen anytime soon, including Battlebury's.

"Suffolk Chamber of Commerce broadly understands the Government's cautious stepped approach to re-opening our society and economy, as nobody wants a return to a full lockdown ever again," said a Chamber spokesman.

"We also commend the Government's openness in setting out the four conditions which need to be met before each step can go ahead.

"However, this plan is only part of the solution, with next week's Budget being absolutely crucial in determining the future viability of thousands of local businesses, many of whose cashflow situations have seriously declined over the last few months.

"That is why we are looking to the Chancellor to ensure that no additional taxes or other burdens are placed upon the business community for many years to come.

"Specifically, we would like to see an extension and expansion in the 100% business rates relief scheme, an immediate, further round of upfront cash grant support – at least equivalent to the £25,000 available in the first national lockdown, an extension to the deferral on VAT until at least the end of 2021 and enhancements to the current Government lending schemes.

"To protect livelihoods, we are advocating an extension to the Job Retention and Self-Employed Income Support Schemes at least until a full reopening of the economy is possible and at least until the end of July 2021, as well as an expansion in income protection support for directors of limited companies.

"We are also advocating for a New Deal for Business to lock in a long-term economic renewal centred around national growth sectors and sustained training and development support for all workers."

Meanwhile Suffolk County Council leader Matthews Hicks warned people should still stick to the rules, despite the temptations.

He said: "Most people will feel that this lockdown has been harder than any of the previous restrictions. Many more people now know someone who's been affected by COVID-19, the weather has meant more time indoors and we're missing our loved ones more than ever. In short, we are tired and ready for a brighter future.

"The end really is in sight now. With the rapidly accelerating vaccination programme, testing readily available and the number of cases steadily decreasing, the Prime Minister has been able to outline the road map towards social restrictions ending.

"Throughout this lockdown, the people of Suffolk have stuck to the rules and with the end goal clearly in mind. It is this commitment to doing the right thing that has protected vulnerable people, the NHS and, ultimately, saved lives.

"Now we are so close, Suffolk needs you to continue following the guidance, get tested and vaccinated when it is your turn. We have worked together to slow the spread of COVID and must now stay the course to overcome it."

Addressing schools first, Mr Johnson said all schools for all pupils will reopen two weeks today and outdoor after-school sports and activities will be allowed to restart.

From March 8 outdoor recreation with one other person will also be permitted. It means people will be allowed to sit together in a park with a coffee, drink or picnic.

Larger groups will be able to meet outside - including in private gardens - up to a maximum of six people or two households from March 29 providing infection rates do not go up.

Tennis courts, golf courses and other outdoor sport facilities will also reopen on March 29 - the first Monday of the school Easter holidays.

Organised adults and children's sport, including grassroots football, will restart on this date.

Non-essential retail will open as will barbers and hairdressers on April 12.

Pubs and restaurants will begin to open for outdoors service and there will be no curfew or requirement for people to order a substantial meal.

Zoos, theme parks, and drive-in cinemas will open, as will public libraries and community centres.

Mr Johnson said that by May 17, most restrictions on meeting outdoors will be lifted and pubs and restaurants will open for indoor service.

Cinemas, play areas, hotels, and theatres will also open and larger events will be allowed, subject to enhanced testing.

Mr Johnson said that on June 21 all limits on social contacts should be lifted and large events like weddings should be able to go ahead.

The prime minister told MPs restrictions will be eased step-by-step across the whole of England, avoiding a return to the previous system of regional tiers.

Mr Johnson said there will be five weeks in between each stage of lockdown easing - with four weeks to analyse the latest COVID data, and one week to give notice to businesses.

Ministers are aiming to offer all UK adults a COVID vaccine by the end of July.

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