Hospitality venues in New South Wales are set to revert back to the 2sqm rule from Friday 12 February.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced the news in a press conference yesterday, saying the state was in a positive position.

“If things continue on the path they are, from Friday week we will be reverting back to the 2sqm rule,” said Ms Berejiklian.

However, the Premier warned the easing of restrictions could change if “something very unexpected occurs between now and next week”.

The announcement is welcome news for operators, who have been adhering to the 4sqm rule since the end of December.

The Premier said she made the announcement: “to provide certainty to business and make sure people are prepared and can take advantage of that situation”.

With Valentine’s Day taking place just two days later, the easing of restrictions will free up in-demand tables for diners and provide a much-needed opportunity to operators to recoup costs.

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