All Non-Essential Shops Including Clothes Stores Will Open On June 15th

In a move to boost the economy, they will join outdoor markets and car showrooms, which will be back to business from June 1st.

He went on to encourage people to "get out and enjoy themselves in the open air [from the beginning of next month]," continuing: "I am certainly not going to discourage them from spending at all.

"It is early days but we are very much hoping there will be a bounce back over the course of the next few months."

Non-essential shops include clothing, homeware and toy shops, among others - all of which have been forced to keep their doors closed since March 23rd, at the start of lockdown.

The change in guidance comes as the government seeks to reduce the lockdown regulations further, following successful attempts to reduce the R rate and keep infection levels down.

The Prime Minister said that the government would be issuing the retail sector strict guidance they would have to adhere to in order to reopen, "detailing the measures they should take to meet the necessary social distancing and hygiene standards".

"Shops now have the time to implement this guidance before they reopen," he said. "This will ensure there can be no doubt about what steps they should take."

He added: "I want people to be confident that they can shop safely, provided they follow the social distancing rules for all premises."

The news has come as a welcome announcement to many, who have been without retail therapy since lockdown begun.

The British Retail Consortium has since said it welcomes the announcement, stating it provided "much-needed clarity on the route ahead".

It also comes amid mounting speculation that lockdown rules could be lessened further in the coming days.

The Telegraph reported that the government is currently working on proposals to allow small gatherings outdoors, such as garden parties or barbecues.

These are said to be part of a wider plan to introduce 'social bubbles' which could mean we're allowed to mix with up to 10 people at the same time.

However, nothing has officially been announced on this yet.