COLWYN Bay businesses have been hard hit by confusion over local restriction rules.

This has prompted Cllr Abdul Khan who represents the town on Conwy Council to issue a call for clear messaging.

He said people are not clear that what is in force are local restrictions not a lockdown.

He said: “We are in difficult times made worse by the mixed messages from Central Government, the Welsh Government and local government. People are confused and this is damaging businesses.

“The new restrictions have been called a lockdown and that has caused businesses and customers to think we are back to the lockdown we had earlier this year and not the local restrictions which have come into force. This is causing frustration and confusion and has damaged businesses. What we need are clear and straightforward messages from Central Government, the Welsh Government and local government about what can and can’t be done which would make it easier for businesses. It should not be called a lockdown, but local restrictions.”

Andrio Da Silva, of Virgilio’s Portuguese and Italian restaurant and takeaway in Penrhyn Road, Colwyn Bay said: “People think we are in lockdown and makes them scared to come out. It is not a lockdown but local restrictions. On top of that what is killing is only allowing people from one household bubble to come out and not mix with others. What would suit much better would be the rule of six as there is in England. If things keep going on as they are businesses will find it difficult to keep on trading.

Andrew Edwards of Frydays Fish and Chip Shop, Penrhyn Bay and Greenfield Road Chippy, Colwyn Bay said: “We have definitely been affected by either the restrictions or the way the restrictions have been described. I think people are confused at the messages. “The restrictions are that people should not travel unnecessarily out of the County and only mix indoors with the household they live with. Businesses such as ours, pubs, restaurants and shops are open as long as everyone adheres to the restrictions and wear masks inside, and socially distance. There should be clearer messages on the restrictions. Businesses are open as normal with Covid social distancing systems in place. There are no reasons for people to stay away.”

Faz Islam of the Indian Takeaway in Conwy Road, Colwyn Bay said: “Since the local restrictions came into force business has dropped off as much as 20 per cent because people are confused about what they are allowed to do.”

Louis Leach of Fisherman’s Fish and Chips in Station Road, Colwyn Bay, said: “I have spoken to numerous people and many were confused about what they can do and cannot do. I think they have the impression they are not allowed to leave their home unless it is for exercise or essential shopping. This has had a massive effect on our business, in the last week it has dropped to a third. It is all very confusing. I am not arguing for not having restrictions, but they must be clear. Most businesses are open as usual and operate within the restrictions.”

Llandudno is similarly suffering with its high number of hotels and restaurants.