Markings on pavements, increased cleaning and one-way systems in shops are some measures being brought in as high streets prepare to reopen.

Swale council revealed how it is helping non-essential retailers get up and running again as the latest easing of lockdown measures will see more stores on Sheppey, in Sittingbourne and Faversham open on Monday.

Changes will include businesses having plans to manage queues inside and outside their premises, encouraging people to follow a one-way system and markings on pavements in busy areas.

Car park machinery will be cleaned every day, along with benches, and signs installed to remind people to keep apart.

CCTV cameras in town centres will be monitored to keep an eye on activity.

Cabinet member for economy and property, Cllr Monique Bonney (Ind), said: “It’s encouraging local shops will be able to open their doors again, but we have to make sure it’s safe and people feel comfortable visiting them again.

“It won’t be the same shopping experience as usual as shops will have measures in place to keep customers and staff safe.

“This will probably mean queues inside and outside shops, particularly at busy times, so we want people to be kind and courteous."

Cllr Bonney pleaded with people planning to head out next week to be patient.

“On narrow paths and in doorways, please wait at a distance for others to go past so they don’t feel uncomfortable about getting too close," she added.

“It is important people stay safe. We need to keep socially distancing, washing our hands and consider wearing face masks.

“Things may change and we’ll have to react to that, but we need to support our local high streets, they are very important.

“The last thing we want is a second wave, so we all need to do our bit and work together to prevent that, so please, be kind, be patient and be safe.”

Council workers will be delivering letters to shops in high streets to let them know about the changes.

Posters and signs will be provided for shop windows encouraging people to get in touch if they want to highlight any issues they are facing.

Read more: All the latest news from Sheppey

Read more: All the latest news from Sittingbourne

Read more: All the latest news from Faversham

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