Shopping centres 'partially open' for certain shops

Merry Hill is operating on a 'partially closed' basis.

And shoppers are advised to check on its website for opening times.

A spokesman for Merry Hill said: "Following the Government’s update that all non-essential shops are to close, we can confirm that intu Merry Hill will now be operating on a partially closed basis.

"Our centres sit at the heart of many of their communities and provide access to vital services such as pharmacies and supermarkets. As many of these essential services can only be reached through the centres themselves, we will ensure all our visitors are able to access them whilst supporting those retailers who need to stay open.

"A small number of our team will be on hand to make sure our centres remain clean and safe places to visit. Opening times will vary so please check the website for details.

"We would like to thank our fantastic team at intu who are working very hard in very challenging circumstances, to support our retailers, serve our communities and take care of one another. Our thoughts are with everyone during this difficult time."

A list of essential stores that will remain open is also being put online.

As of yesterday, there were eight businesses open in the Mander Centre, but Greggs was closing at 3pm. Others remaining open include Boots, Wilko, B&M, One Below, Bodycare, Mander News, and Superdrug.

On the Mander Centre's website it says: "At the Mander Centre, we continue to follow the official guidance from Public Health England carefully and are monitoring the situation closely.

"Naturally, the health and well-being of all our visitors and staff is our absolute priority. Some brands in our centre have taken the precautionary decision to temporarily close or adjust their opening times, as part of their responses to Coronavirus (COVID-19)."

And New Square Shopping Centre in West Bromwich is now closed for all retailers except those providing essential goods and services – food and grocery, pharmacies, banks, post offices and funeral directors.

A statement on the website says: "Please check retailers’ social media channels and websites for news on individual store closures or opening times. The situation is evolving quickly so please be aware that published opening hours may vary among retailers and change at short notice.

"We are working hard to ensure that we can continue to provide a level of service to support retailers who are continuing to trade and serving their communities at this time.

"We would like to thank our retailers who are all working extremely hard in very challenging and unprecedented circumstances to ensure visitors are able to access goods and services. We would appreciate your support in respecting Government’s advice to adhere to social distancing."