Businesses across the region have expressed a mixture of both disappointment and understanding that they are unable to re-open on July 4.

It follows the recent Government announcement that certain businesses such as nail salons, indoor gyms, and nightclubs will have to remain closed until further notice.

However, some businesses have been able to adapt during the lockdown to continue to work within guidelines.

Keri Taylor, from K T Fitness based in Whitehaven, said: “I don’t currently have a premises so it doesn’t affect me too much – I can continue with online or outdoor PT sessions.

“I do work in and for a gym which is obviously not allowed to open as yet, but I completely understand why. We can only be patient and wait until it is safe.”

Pubs have been given the go-ahead to re-open on what has been dubbed 'independence day' but nightclubs will remain closed until further notice as they may pose a higher risk to the public.

The government has said that bars could potentially repurpose their dancefloor with appropriate seating instead.

Julie Brown, owner of DeJa Vu nightclub, said: "It’s impossible to socially distance a dance floor and at the end of the day the safety of not only my customers but also my staff comes first.

"I’m more than happy to wait until more restrictions have been lifted.

"In the meantime we have had a mini-makeover."

There is, however, a desire amongst some to see their businesses re-open so they can provide support for the community both mentally and physically.

Lisa Dykes, managing director of iCan Health and Fitness CIC, said: "As a community interest company, not for profit organisation, we are heartbroken that we are still not allowed to open up our vital service to our community.

"iCan isn’t just a gym we’re a community of women helping each other to achieve goals including weight, tone, mental well-being and tackle social isolation.

"Our members are desperate to be allowed back into iCan to improve their health, mental well-being and to connect with like minded peers again.

"Although we are happy that local small businesses such as hairdressers, independent hotels and bars can open we can’t help but feel it is unfair to still close gyms when we are doing the very best our sector can to improve health- not make money- not encourage drinking or unhealthy eating but improving the quality of people’s lives.

"Especially when they have been so dramatically effected through Covid 19.

"This country’s government shouldn’t be operating on a cash flow basis but a well-being for our citizens basis.

"iCan and I know other gyms too have all the health and safety measures in place for safe opening including- cleaning equipment.

"Risk assessments, gloves, masks, floor markings and special staff training including an advanced cleaning regime to encourage and ensure safe, healthy exercise to be had by all.

"Surely it’s safer and people can adhere to social distancing regulations in a well staffed exercise facility than to get a little tipsy in a pub."

There is some confusion regarding why certain beauty services can re-open but others can't.

Hairdressers can open on July 4 but nail and beauty salons, and spas can't as it is believed they would still pose a risk.

Thi Pham, manager of Star Nails in Workington, said: "We want nail salons and hair salons to open at the same time, it's not fair at all.

"We are putting everything in place to support and ensure the safety of customers and myself inside the salon, but everything is ready. Hopefully we'll hear good news from the Government."