Netherlands begins relaxing restrictive measures from Monday

See what opens on 11 May in the Netherlands and how measures will gradually be relaxed until September

Some important restrictive measures in the Netherlands will be relaxed as of Monday, 11 May, informed the Dutch government. The country will be gradually easing the measures introduced in relation to Covid-19, starting at the local and neighbourhood level, continuing with the regional and finally – the national level. The government has laid out a plan on how to approach the task until 1^st September.

Small gatherings allowed, opening of primary schools and libraries on 11 May

The Netherlands believes its approach has permitted to keep the new coronavirus under control, thus allowing the country to begin its return to normal life. The relaxing of measures begins with the allowing of small gatherings, as long as the basic rules are respected (living in the so-called 1,5 metres society, avoiding crowded areas, protecting oneself and others, etc.)

Hence, on Monday, 11 May, primary schools, including special primary schools, and childcare providers will reopen. So will the libraries, observing 1,5 metres of distance between visitors.

Sports, driving lessons, beauty visits also allowed

Furthermore, as of 11 May, children aged 12 and under will be allowed to play sports and take part in other activities together outdoors under supervision; young people between 13 and 18 years of age (under supervision) and adults will also be able to play sports outdoors but must respect the 1.5 metre safe distance.

However, matches and competitions are still not allowed, and neither is the use of shared changing rooms. Naturally, showers may only be taken at home.

From the start of next week, many people in contact-based professions will be allowed to work again. This includes driving instructors, medical and paramedical professionals, hair and beauty salons and more, who will accept clients by appointment only.

The Dutch are also advised to avoid public transport, especially in rush hours and to wear protective masks (which becomes mandatory on 1^st June).

Further alleviation of measures after 1^st June

Should the coronavirus remain under control, the relaxing of measures in the Netherlands will continue, reassures the government. It will thus be possible for secondary schools, outdoor seating areas of cafés and restaurants, cinemas, cultural institutions, and heritage sites to reopen on 1 June.

Finally, facilities such as gyms, saunas, health spas, club canteens, cannabis cafés (coffeeshops), casinos and sex establishments could reopen on 1 September, if everything goes as planned. Contact sports and indoor sports and football matches without spectators could also be allowed at that point. However, nothing is clear as of yet about the reopening of higher educational institutions and the organisation of mass events, like concerts and festivals.