Shops reopen in Luton town centre with footfall 'generally up'

But while the day passed generally without incident, not everyone stuck to the one-way system in George Street.

Shops across the country reopened on Monday, June 15, as the government lifted trading restrictions for non-essential retail.

Luton town centre had introduced a host of measures, including one-way systems for pedestrians, road closures, queuing signs and a traffic light system at The Mall.

Cllr Sian Timoney, deputy leader of the council and portfolio holder for economic development, also met with business owners in the town centre as they worked under the new rules for the first time.

A Luton Borough Council spokesman said: "We looked carefully at the town centre and planned how people can navigate around while sticking to social distancing rules and we also have on hand town centre marshals to encourage people to follow the directional signage and social distancing requirements.

"We want to thank everyone who was understanding of the new rules, they are in place for everyone’s safety.

"But unfortunately, not everyone adhered to them - in particular the directional signage in George Street.

"Today (Tuesday) we have noticed people are following the system much better which is an encouraging sign.

"Footfall was up generally in the town centre and the Mall’s traffic light system was on 'Amber' for much of the day which meant they were near to reaching shopper capacity.

"Visitors were advised of significant queuing time in some stores and shoppers are being advised to avoid the peak times of 11am to 3pm."