The route out of lockdown may involve a five-stage plan staggered over the next six months.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson will reveal his “roadmap” on Sunday. He said the first steps will happen the next day “if we possibly can”.
A draft 50-page plan has been drawn up to get the country back to normal following the coronavirus outbreak.
The Government’s blueprint aims to to relax the lockdown in staggered steps between now and October.
However, officials fear a second wave of covid-19 or a seasonal flu outbreak this autumn could blow their plans off course.
BORIS JOHNSON’S REPORTED FIVE-STAGE PLAN
1. From Monday
Unlimited exercise allowed. Employees to be encouraged to return to workplaces that have stayed open throughout the lockdown if safe.
Garden centres could reopen while there may be more guidance on the use of outdoor spaces including open-air markets, high streets and cemeteries.
2. End of May/Start of June
Phased return of primary schools in England, starting with Year 6.
Households could be allowed to expand “social bubble” to meet one other household of family or friends.
3. June (End)
Phased return of secondary schools in England before the summer holidays.
Small team sports such as five-a-side football could be allowed, along with outdoor gatherings of fewer than 30 people.
Cafes with outdoor seating could reopen while outdoor sports like golf, tennis and angling might resume.
Possible return of Premier League matches, although behind closed doors.
4. End of August/Start of September
Pubs, bars and restaurants could gradually reopen although customers would be expected to follow strict social distancing rules.
5. October
Possible return of football fans to matches. Gyms could be allowed to reopen.
But any further lifting of restrictions to get back to normal life would be in doubt amid fears of a second wave of coronavirus or an outbreak of seasonal flu.
The plans come as the UK became the first country in Europe to officially report more than 30,000 deaths.
A further 649 people have died, taking the total death toll to 30,076.
The PM clashed with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer over the figures when he made his first appearance at Prime Minister’s Questions in six weeks.
Mr Starmer blasted: “It’s now the highest number in Europe. It’s the second highest in the world. That’s not success. How did it come to this?”
