LUDLOW people will start to get their town back from Monday.

The town has earmarked its own route map back to the new normal but a Town Council report says that it will take time and does not expect the market to be back to anything like its old self until well into the summer.

From next Monday, pubs will be able to reopen although social distancing will still apply and meals and drinks can only be served outside, although there will be no requirement to have a meal with any drinks.

Some pub operates say that with the English spring outdoor operations may not be a huge success and will be heavily dependent on the weather.

Non-essential shops will be able to reopen but the social distancing rules requiring people to stay two metres apart remain in place until at least May 17.

If all goes to plan all restrictions will be lifted on June 21.

From next Monday the way will be open for a return of the Ludlow speciality markets on Thursdays and Sundays.

There are plans for a markets leaflet to be published both online and in print with 5,000 copies being made available. This initiative will be funded from income from market trader rents.

In a report prepared for the town council it is predicted that trader levels are not expected to return to normal until at least mid-June.

Until that time half price rents will be offered.

It is hoped that it may be possible to produce a calendar of events in the town as a further way of boosting tourism.

There will also be discussions about allowing trading and car parking again in Post Office Square. There will be special new ‘maker’s markets on Tuesdays in August.

It is hoped getting the market’ back to normal will benefit shops, restaurants, pubs and other businesses.