Drive in cinemas, zoos and safari parks can reopen in mid-June

The Prime Minister will update the nation on the easing of the restrictions on Wednesday as he tries to reopen the economy while minimising Covid-19's rate of transmission.

Under pressure from zoos warning they face an exponential threat, Mr Johnson will say at the Downing Street press conference they can reopen next week as long as they can uphold social distancing rules.

The news follows Yorkshire Wildlife Park call on the government to allow zoos to open.

The move will pave the way for zoos to reopen in England alongside non-essential shops, despite schools remaining shuttered to many pupils.

A Downing Street official said: "People are continuing to make huge sacrifices to reduce the spread of coronavirus and avoid a second spike, but we know it is tough and where we can safely open up more attractions, and it is supported by the science, we will do so.

"This is by necessity a careful process, but we hope the reopening of safari parks and zoos will help provide families with more options to spend time outdoors while supporting the industry caring for these incredible animals."

The announcement will come after London Zoo and other institutions across the nation warned they may face permanent closure if they were not allowed to reopen.

The PM's father, Stanley Johnson, had joined calls for zoos to "reopen as soon as possible" after they were ordered to close when the lockdown was imposed on March 23.

Though the easing will be a relief, zoos will be told that they must not reopen indoor exhibitions, such as reptile houses, and must ensure amenities including cafes are take-away only.

The relaxation comes as the Government faces criticism over its handling of schools after Education Secretary Gavin Williamson conceded English primaries will not be able to welcome back all pupils before the summer holidays as planned.

Children in nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 in England began returning to primary school last week but some schools have said they do not have the space to admit all pupils while following Government advice to limit class sizes to 15.

Mr Williamson's concession will mean many primary school children will not return to classes until September, along with most students in secondary school.

Andrew Hall, spokesperson for Biaza - British and Irish Association for Zoos and Aquariums, said: "Biaza is obviously delighted that zoos and safari parks have been given the flexibility to reopen.

"But as a sector, we are not out of the woods. Aquariums are still closed, and zoos and safari parks have taken a real hit. For some zoos, particularly those reliant on tourism, reopening isn't going to be financially viable for them.

"It's helpful today but it's not the full answer to the challenges we face.

"We know that as a sector, zoos, aquariums and safari parks will be struggling, especially with limited entry, so we do still need the support of Government - but we're very pleased about today's announcement."

He added: "Zoos and aquariums in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland will still be facing significant challenges and we will be working hard to achieve positive outcomes in these nations."

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