Concern about COVID-19 outbreaks in ‘staycation’ areas as businesses are forced to close

Concern is mounting about possible outbreaks in ‘staycation’ areas as businesses in Newcastle, Co Down, have been forced to close their doors after staff members tested positive for COVID-19.

Kent Amusements and The Bon-Bon announced on social media that staff members have contracted the novel coronavirus.

It comes as videos and images of crowded holiday resorts in Northern Ireland, including Portrush, were posted on social media.

The Bon-Bon stated: “Within the last hour we have been informed that a member of staff has tested positive for COVID-19.

“We shall be closed until further notice when we have had the proper guidance. We had taken precautions earlier in the week and deep cleaned and made staff and customers wear masks due to so many local cases as we were hoping to prevent this situation.

“We would appreciate your understanding and support during this time.”

Kent Amusements will also be closed for a deep clean.

It said in a statement: “Unfortunately, this morning Kent Amusements has been notified that some of our staff members have tested positive for Covid-19.

“We will therefore be closed until further notice. We have taken all precautions, risk assessments and procedures required to keep our staff and customers as safe as possible.

“We continue to carry out deep cleaning of the premises and all our staff will be tested for COVID-19. We will reopen when we are assured it is safe to do so. We thank all our customers and staff for their much appreciated support at this unprecedented time.

“We also extend our best wishes to our staff who have tested positive, to other local businesses and their employees and the general public who have tested positive for COVID-19 and wish them all a speedy recovery and return to good health.”

A nearby supermarket also had to close after a number of staff were found to have COVID-19.