“While the sector was partially open in 2020, the restrictions in place meant that in some cases businesses were only able to break even – despite being open. The tiering system and the more stringent restrictions through Christmas have meant that the sector has effectively had to manage its way through three consecutive winters,” said Philip Turner, founder and director of Bury St Edmunds-based Chestnut Group, which owns pubs and hotels across Norfolk and Suffolk.
Philip Turner, CEO of the Chestnut Group, on the right side of his restaurant bar instead of in the kitchen. Pic: Archant
- Credit: Archant
A relaxation of household mixing rules announced in the road map would have the “greatest benefit” on his sector.
Norfolk and Suffolk pubs, salons and offices on road map edp24.co.uk - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from edp24.co.uk Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
Published:
8:00 AM December 28, 2020
Despite its challenges, 2020 has been a busy year for Norfolk s estate agents.
- Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
During the first nationwide lockdown in March this year, few could have predicted that the UK property market would experience such a boom.
The stamp duty holiday has certainly helped, as has so many people re-evaluating their needs - whether that means they want to escape the city in favour of the country, move closer to family or just need a bit more space now that WFH has become the norm.
But how have local agents coped with the changes – from new Covid restrictions to a surge in demand? We spoke to members of the Norwich & District Association of Estate Agents to get their views on 2020 – and their predictions for the year ahead.