The wider reopening of town centres and high street shops was deemed a success in Harrow as it now prepares to cater for the hospitality sector.

Harrow Council said the operations in its busiest shopping areas had “gone well” since they were given permission by the Government to reopen their doors on June 15.

There have been some queues in its town centre – particularly outside Primark and Sports Direct – but Cllr Varsha Parmar, responsible for the environment at Harrow Council, explained that these have been managed effectively.

It utilised social distancing measures – including signs, barriers and floor markings – to ensure shoppers’ and staff safety.

Cllr Parmar said: “We’ve supported businesses on how to prepare and advising them what to do.

“Overall, it has gone well and any issues that arose have been resolved.

“The first day was very busy – things have calmed down a little, but we are prepared for any rush at the weekends.”

A council report showed that it is now in discussion with cafés, pubs, and restaurants about how it can manage the wider reopening of the hospitality sector.

This will include a focus on outdoor space to allow visitors to make use of spaced out tables and chairs and help combat any risk to the spread of Covid-19.

It comes after prime minister Boris Johnson announced that the two-metre rule would be relaxed from July 4 so more venues could open their doors to the public.

In neighbouring Brent, the council is still encouraging people to “shop safe and shop local” in a bid to revitalise the local economy.

Again, it noted the successful reopening of high streets but urged people to remain observant when it comes to safety measures.

Cllr Shama Tatler, responsible for business at Brent Council, said: “The easing of restrictions on these non-essential businesses is a relief to many and will hopefully support our valued local businesses, but it won’t be an immediate return to business as usual, as it was before lockdown began this year.

“We have to remember that sadly Brent has some of the highest number of Covid-19 deaths and cases in London.

“It is on all of us to remain vigilant, to maintain social distancing and help stop the spread of the virus.”