One-way traffic, increased hygiene among ‘pragmatic’ new regulations for NT eateries

RESTAURANTS, cafes and pubs preparing for life under coronavirus restrictions have received their first glimpse at operation under a mandatory checklist that will be enforced from May 15.

Co-owner of Pee Wee's at the Point, Lily Matthews, which is one of Darwin’s premier restaurants. Picture: Justin Kennedy

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RESTAURANTS, cafes and pubs preparing for life under coronavirus restrictions have received their first glimpse at operation under a mandatory checklist that will be enforced from May 15.

Internal layouts will be restricted to tables at least 1.5m apart, while eateries will also aim to have one-way traffic flow measures, such as separate dedicated entry and exit points. Hand sanitising stations will also be encouraged at arrival points for patrons.

Staff will also increase their hygiene practices while those who fall sick are being told to stay home with strict protocols to ensure they don’t risk the spread of coronavirus.

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Hospitality NT chief executive Alex Bruce said the new regulations would be particularly important for the fortnight when restaurants, bars and cafes opened under Stage 2 of easing of restrictions.

“A lot of the things on the list, it’s common sense and we look forward to just welcoming Territorians back into our safe and secure venues,” he said.

“We think it’s pragmatic to be honest and we’ll make them work.” Staff will be encouraged to keep their distance from customers and colleagues where possible while social distancing will also need to be maintained for those picking up takeaway meals.

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Chief Minister Michael Gunner confirmed yesterday that keep cups were set to return. Government advice also indicates there is no evidence that single-use cutlery, crockery and containers are any more safe than standard kitchenware that has been properly cleaned.

Mr Bruce said the closed orders and extinct tourism industry would still impact businesses and could keep some closed until Stage 3 of the roadmap is implemented on June 5.

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“We’re missing two million visitors to the NT so any of our sectors relying on those customers face a long and difficult road,” he said.

“You might see some make the call not to open on the 15th and wait until June 5 but overwhelmingly … the vast majority are looking at how they can register and open on the 15th.”