How Riverside in Hemel Hempstead is working towards the new normal for customers

Managers at Riverside Shopping Centre in Hemel Hempstead have unveiled their plans for welcoming customers back to the centre after being closed for the past two months.

The open-air centre, which is home to a number of high street favourites is preparing to re-open following the Prime Minister’s announcement that all non-essential retail can re-open on 15th June.

The news means that stores including Next, Debenhams, H&M and Topshop can open their doors to customers in a matter of weeks.

Riverside Centre Manager, Ian Welland said: “While the centre has been closed we have worked with our staff and operational partner to introduce enhanced cleaning regimes with the safety of customers, staff and contractors is at the forefront of operations throughout.

"Now the green light has been given for retail to open, we are taking further steps to reassure customers that they can expect a safe environment when they visit Riverside.

"As customer numbers grow over the coming weeks, procedures will be adapted as necessary."

Signage is being installed throughout Riverside to guide customers on social distancing and the safe use of areas such as car park machines.

Posters, floor stickers, one-way walking systems and signs at frequently used touch points will make sure the precautions which have been put in place are clear.

Ian added: “We are also working closely with the retailers at the centre to support their plans for re-opening and creating workable queuing systems."

As well as signage in the centre, updated cleaning procedures, customer safety, queue requirements and retailer restrictions will be communicated to customers on the centre’s website and social media pages.

Hemel Hempstead as a town are working together to produce clear guidelines for all shoppers.

A keep to the right one-way system will operate across the town with cross over areas introduced.

Ian added: “Letting customers know what to expect when they visit is really important to us.

"The shopping experience will be different for some time but, we are working really hard to keep customers and staff safe, without taking too much away from the experience.”

The cafes and restaurants at Riverside are also working to serve customers in the near future.

While ‘eating in’ is not allowed under government restrictions, Pizza Express, Starbucks and Sprinkles are preparing to operate collection and delivery services in the coming weeks, while awaiting further guidance on customers eating at outdoor seating areas and within the restaurants.

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