A WHOLE host of Halesowen shops are staying open after lockdown three came into effect today.

Only essential shops are allowed to stay open from today (Tuesday January 5), but these include a string of shops and services including estate agents, the job centre and garden centres.

The lockdown is set to be reviewed in the middle of February, with a potential easing of restrictions by the end of school half term on February 19, depending on the success of the vaccine rollout.

Vicky Rogers, manager of Halesowen BID, said: "It's like we have gone back in time, but certainly what was needed from the rise in figures.

"Not good for the retailers but the Government has this morning announced investment of £4.6bn to retail, hospitality and leisure along with the extended furlough, so fingers crossed we can bounce back yet again."

Vicky said many shops have switched to online orders.

She said: "Please continue to shop local and visit the Facebook, ebay store and websites of our local businesses.

"Many will offer delivery services too.

"Please continue to shop local and support the local High Street.

"We need your support now more than ever."

Halesowen News: Halesowen BID manager Vicky Rogers Halesowen BID manager Vicky Rogers

Halesowen BID said in the Cornbow Centre the shops staying open are: Asda, Poundland, Fruit Deli, Murrays Chemist, Heron food, Holland and Barrett, B and M, Savers, Scriven, Spec Savers and Chapman and Myers Opticians. Jo’s Baguettes, Greggs and Costa will be open for takeaways only.

In the town centre WHSmith, Iceland, Wilkos, Lloyds Chemist, Halesowen Mini Market, Jacks News, CEX, Cashbrokers, Eye Society, HSBC Bank, Nat West, Halifax, Yorkshire Building Society, TSB, Santander and Barclays and the Post Office will be open.

Subway, No1 Pizza, Papa’s, Figaro’s, American Slice, Miss Fish, The Grill, Jimmy Macks and Bangla Lounge will offering takeaway and delivery services.

Boots Opticians and Halesowen Dental Centre are open by appointment only.

Alan Warwick, LJD Meats, The Bread Shop and Minibites will be open in the Plaza Mall.

Aldi, Lidl, Esso on Bromsgrove Street will stay open.

KFC and Mcdonalds in Halesowen are open for drive-thrus, takeaways and deliveries.

Papa John's Pizza is open for deliveries.

Some shops may have reduced opening hours so people are advised to check before visiting.

This lockdown marks the third time national measures have been introduced, following on from the first lockdown in March 2020, and a more limited nationwide lockdown in November.