FIRST Minister Nicola Sturgeon has outlined a number of key dates as Scotland continues its phased approach to easing coronavirus lockdown restrictions.

In the Scottish Parliament today (Tuesday, March 16), Ms Sturgeon announced that the 'stay at home' rule will end on April 2, although it will be replaced by a 'stay local' rule for up to three weeks.

Meanwhile, the First Minister also revealed that hairdressers and barbers will be allowed to reopen from April 5. 

From April 26, it is hoped that all of mainland Scotland will return to level 3 of the Scottish Government's multi-tiered restriction system. 

Travel around Scotland's mainland will be permitted while pubs, bars and restaurants will open outdoors and indoors to certain sized groups with rules in place.

From May 17, cinemas will be allowed to reopen, with indoor and outdoor events able to restart on a small scale.

Changes from April 26

On April 26, it is hoped that all areas on the Scottish mainland will move down to a “modified” level 3. 

From that date, travel restrictions around mainland Scotland will be lifted entirely. 

April 26 will also see the return of indoor gyms, driving lessons, tourist accommodation, libraries and museums, with the number permitted at weddings and funerals rising to 50. 

Six people from three households will be allowed to meet outdoors, with 12-17-year-olds allowed to mingle in groups of six from six households. 

However, the First Minister said the government is unable to give a date for when indoor visits will be permitted, although the situation is under an ongoing review.

Cafes, restaurants and bars will also be allowed to serve alcohol outdoors - even without food - until 10pm. 

Groups of six from three households will be able to meet outdoors at these locations. 

Meanwhile, there will also be limited reopening of hospitality venues indoors for groups of four from two households for food and non-alcoholic drinks until 8pm.

Ms Sturgeon described these changes as “significant” and said that it is likely that there will be no further changes before May 17.

Changes from May 17

From May 17, as many Scottish mainland areas as possible will move from level 3 to level 2, according to the First Minister. 

Ms Sturgeon said that hospitality venues will move towards “greater normality”, with alcohol allowed indoors - although restrictions such as two-hour booking slots for groups may exist.

Adult contact sports and indoor group exercise will also return, along with cinemas and bingo clubs.

Ms Sturgeon added that it is hoped that indoor and outdoor events will be able to restart, albeit on a “small scale”. 

The First Minister also said that rules on outdoor gatherings will be eased further, while you will be able to meet someone indoors “if this has not proved possible before this date”.

Other changes

By early June, it is hoped all of mainland Scotland will be moved into level 1, Ms Sturgeon said, with a move to level 0 pencilled in for the end of that month. 

There are still some restrictions under level 0, Ms Sturgeon said.

She added she does not want to give dates for nightclubs and gigs just yet.