On Monday 19 July, the country will reach stage 4 of the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown.

Following the announcement from Government, Hull Museums are looking forward to being able to welcome more visitors to their sites during the summer, while still making the safety of visitors and museum staff a priority.

After reviewing their processes, the museums will no longer be asking visitors to book a ticket for a pre-selected timeslot but visitors will still be able to use the NHS app to scan a QR code on entry. The museums request visitors respect the space of others, use the hand sanitiser available and strongly recommend the use of face coverings when visiting the sites.

Capacities at the sites have been increased to reflect the likely spread of visits with no booking system, however given the increasing rate of infections they remain lower than pre-pandemic capacities. In the event a site reaches capacity visitors may have to wait before being allowed entry.

Councillor Marjorie Brabazon, chair of Hull Culture and Leisure, said: “At every stage of the pandemic, the safety of our staff and visitors has been of paramount importance. That is why we will still strongly encourage visitors to wear masks when visiting our museums and galleries, as well as sanitise their hands on entry.

“Throughout the pandemic we have received incredible support from visitors, and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank them for their patience and understanding.”

The processes for managing visitors will be kept under review in light of the ongoing situation and any emerging guidance.

Entry to the Ferens Art Gallery, Streetlife Museum and the Hull and East Riding Museum is free and they are open 10am-4.30pm, Monday to Saturday, 11am-4pm Sunday. Last entry will be 30 minutes before closing. Visitors can plan their visits at www.hcandl.co.uk

Julia Weldon, director of public health at Hull City Council, said: “While the decision has been made to press ahead with removing the remaining Coronavirus restrictions, we must remember the virus does not disappear with them. People in Hull have taken care of each other, put each other first and done all they could to keep each other safe throughout this pandemic. Now is not the time to stop doing that.

“Of course we are all excited about being able to get back to all the things we’ve missed for so long, whether that’s theatre, live music, dancing, big events, or simply getting together. We’re absolutely not telling people that they shouldn’t do this.

“What we are advising is that rates are rising in Hull and around the country. The vaccine is extremely effective, and when you’ve had both, you’re 85 per cent less likely to become very ill. But you can still get the virus and still spread it.

“We must also remember there are people who are more vulnerable, including those who can’t have the vaccine for medical reasons. It’s vital everyone feels safe and is not excluded.

“Taking the very simple precautions we are all used to helps us all to stay safe and helps minimise spread of the virus, including if any further new variants were to emerge”.