Reaction to Welsh garden centres being allowed to reopen
The First Minister for Wales has announced that garden centres can reopen from March 22, and the industry has been reacting to the news.
Chairman of the Horticultural Trades Association, James Barnes, said: “This is the news the industry has been waiting for. I am delighted the Welsh Government has listened to and finally acted on the representations we have made to them. It has been a frustrating time for our Welsh members, but their inputs and lobbying has been key part of why garden centres have been able to open ahead of other retail. Our sector has been recognised for the services they provide to their local communities, with an ability to offer enhanced safe retail environments.
“Now we need to see similar action from ministers in Northern Ireland and Scotland, to help save our sector there and provide the health and wellbeing benefits of plants, gardens and nature. The HTA will continue to press for reopening in these nations as soon as possible.”