How lockdown impacted hospitality in County Durham

Across County Durham and Darlington, the forced closures led to financial losses as businesses were forced to rethink their operational models or shut their doors completely.

The restrictions put in place significantly altered the way hotels, restaurants, bars, and event venues functioned, leaving many struggling to stay afloat.

(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT) In Darlington, the government implemented various measures to reduce public gatherings and limit the spread of the virus- with the region hit the hardest after being put in Stage 4 provisions.

Those included complete shutdowns of venues at the height of the pandemic to them reopening with limited capacity.

Venues had to operate at limited capacity with social distancing in place and stuck to maximum six being in a group from the same bubble. 

(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT) Bars had strict curfews and every place had to offer a ‘substantial’ meal if they were to serve alcohol. 

Businesses had to implement strict hygiene measures and at one point even included temperature checks.

The economic impact of these restrictions was devastating.

Many Darlington-based businesses faced permanent closure due to insurmountable losses, while others pivoted to alternative models such as takeout services, outdoor dining and digital solutions for contactless interactions- such as table service and contactless payments.

(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT) As lockdowns eased, Darlington’s hospitality industry began its slow recovery. However, the long-term effects remain evident, with many businesses still struggling to return to pre-pandemic levels.

Many people during the lockdown built bars at home and turned to drinking in the house more with friends- a trend that has continued to last as people in the cost of living crisis try to save more money.

(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT) Working in the hospitality sector before and after covid it was clear the levels the pandemic affected the industry. 

From a drop in custom that remains today to a change in how businesses run now. 

I remember having to work a 12-hour shift alone wearing a mask and visor having to check if groups of six were from the same bubble and testing temperatures at the door. 

People protesting in Crook against the 10pm curfew (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT) Take a look at our timeline highlighting key events and measures throughout the hospitality industry:

March 2020: National Lockdown initiated

The UK government imposed a nationwide lockdown, leading to the closure of all hospitality venues, including pubs, restaurants, and nightclubs.

July 2020: Gradual re-opening with restrictions

Hospitality establishments began reopening with strict social distancing measures. The Business and Planning Act 2020 introduced a Fast Track Pavement Licence scheme to facilitate outdoor dining and drinking, aiding businesses in utilizing outside areas without the need for conventional licenses.

September 2020: Local restrictions in North East England

Rising infection rates led to local restrictions in areas including Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland, Northumberland, South Tyneside, North Tyneside, and County Durham. Measures included a 10 pm curfew for pubs and restaurants and a mandate for table service only.

September 2020: Economic impact on hospitality businesses

Approximately 2,400 hospitality businesses in the North East were affected by the 10 pm curfew and other restrictions, with 800 restaurants and 1,553 pubs experiencing significant operational challenges.

November 2020: Second national Lockdown

A second national lockdown was imposed, resulting in the temporary closure of hospitality venues.

December 2020: Tiered restrictions implemented

Post-lockdown, a tiered system of restrictions was introduced. Many areas in the North East were placed under higher tiers, limiting indoor household mixing and imposing strict operational guidelines on hospitality venues.

January 2021: Third national Lockdown

A third national lockdown was enforced due to surging COVID-19 cases, leading to another closure period for the hospitality sector.

April 2021: Phased re-opening begins

Hospitality venues were permitted to serve customers outdoors with specific safety measures in place.

July 2021: Lifting of remaining restrictions

Most legal restrictions were lifted, allowing hospitality venues to operate without significant limitations.

2024-2025: Ongoing challenges and venue closures

The hospitality industry continued to face challenges such as rising operational costs and changing consumer behaviours.