The U.K. Government has announced plans to emerge out of lockdown over the course of five months, with venues set to open beginning in mid-May. Nightclubs could return 6/21.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson revealed a four-stage plan that will be guided by “data rather than dates” and, should all go to plan, pubs and indoor venues with up to 1,000 attendees or half capacity, whichever is lower, are set to open beginning 5/17. Outdoor performances will have a limit of 4,000 people, or 50% capacity, whichever is fewer. Seated outdoor performances will be restricted to 10,000 people or 25% of capacity.

Subject to tests and conditions being met, all legal limits on capacity will be removed beginning 6/21, nightclubs will reopen and large events can take place. Reviews will be taking place along the process, including pilot events to test the effects of larger crowds and/or reduced social distancing, which will start in April.

Music Venue Trust CEO Mark Davyd welcomed the news but pushed for sector-specific financial support “to mitigate the damage being done to businesses and people's lives, careers and families” in the live music industry. “In light of today's announcements, the budget next week must clearly lay out exactly how the government is going to provide that sector-specific support.”

UK Music Chief Executive Jamie Njoku-Goodwin outlined the need for Government-backed insurance in particular. “The prospect of there being no legal impediments to live music events means issues like insurance are now even more pressing,” he said. “They now present one of the final barriers to getting events going this summer."