South Kesteven District Council's public toilets will reopen as a key part of the first phase in the recovery of town centres.

More shops and businesses will be opening their doors from Monday in line with Government guidelines on easing lockdown restrictions.

SKDC's Cabinet Member for Commercial and Operations, Cllr Dr Peter Moseley, said: "It is great news that our town centres are taking the first steps on the road to recovery from the impact of Coronavirus and that residents and visitors can be confident they will be able to enjoy more of their freedom to be out shopping and supporting local businesses.

"We have carefully considered the health and safety guidance from the Government in relation to reopening public toilets in South Kesteven.

"The safety of our residents, visitors and staff is always a priority so a number of measures are being introduced to ensure good hygiene and social distancing."

Public safety risk assessments have been carried out prior to the toilets reopening. They will be regularly cleaned, and hand sanitiser will be provided, while signs will be on display to remind users to maintain good hygiene and observe social distancing guidelines.

Toilets in Abbey Gardens, Wyndham Park Visitor Centre and Dysart Park Buildings, Grantham, will open 9am-4pm seven days a week. Those in Red Lion Square, Stamford, will open 9am-4pm Monday to Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, and 7am-4pm on Fridays.

Facilities in Bourne Community Access Point will open 9am-4pm seven days a week, South Street, Bourne, from 9am-4pm seven days a week and in Market Deeping from 9am-4pm Monday to Saturday.

In another show of support for the high street, SKDC is to extend free parking in its car parks until 1 August. Free parking was initially introduced in March to support key workers and others who needed to make essential journeys by car during lockdown.

The decision was due to be reviewed on 30 June, but Cabinet will now be asked on Tuesday (16 June) to approve the extension.