THE operators of Thurrock's regional shopping centre, intu lakeside, have detailed measures that will be in force on Monday (15 June) when many of its shops are set to reopen.

Lakeside says it has adapted its existing footfall-monitoring technology so that its frontline teams can accurately monitor and manage the number of people in the centre at any time.

It will manage queues outside the centre when capacity is reached and there will be a raft of other measures including one-way systems, floor stickers and queues outside stores to ensure visitors stay socially distanced once inside.

Enhanced hygiene regimes that were introduced at the start of the outbreak will continue, with more deep cleaning of key areas and touchpoints like escalators, toilets and keypads. These measures have remained in place as centres provide vital access to essential services like pharmacies, supermarkets and banks during the lockdown period.

Hand sanitation stands will also remain at entrances and other locations throughout each centre for visitors to use during their visit.

The plans have been fully communicated to intu Lakeside's brand customers who will continue to be provided with support to help them reopen safely and in line with Government guidelines.

Matthew Roberts, chief executive of intu, said: "We are looking forward to welcoming more visitors back to intu Lakeside and our other centres from 15 June in line with Government guidance.

"Our centres have and will always be at the heart of their local communities. intu supports around 3% of all retail jobs in the UK and our centres are home to some of the biggest and best brands, so we are doing everything we can to make them safe places to visit and work.

"We know we cannot do this alone and everyone who visits our centres whether for work or to shop will play their part in keeping themselves and each other safe by following the official guidelines, and the instructions and safety information provided by our teams.

"Whilst the experience for everyone that visits intu Lakeside will be different to normal, our teams will be on hand to deliver that warm welcome our centres have become known for."

Zara, Primark and H&M are among stores to be opening at intu Lakeside from Monday 15 June. Debenhams, House of Fraser and Topshop/Topman are also due to be opening shortly after and more information on which stores are open can be found at intu.co.uk/lakeside or on each brand's website.