Summary of 11th May update:

The latest update causes uncertainty for near future bookings at the cottages in Lossiemouth!

Most of mainland Scotland moves to Level 2, with eased restrictions on hospitality, entertainment, education and sport. The number of people and households that can meet inside homes in Level 2 has been increased to six people from three households.

The new rules, which come into effect on Monday 17 May, will apply to all mainland local authority areas with the exception of Moray, which is experiencing a high and increasing number of Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases. As a result Moray is likely to remain in Level 3 for a further period, with travel in and out of the area prohibited other than for permitted purposes. A final decision on this will be made at the end of this week.

Further details in this Link to the full update

Our DMO (Destination Management Organisation) Visit Moray Speyside has prepared this useful list of FAQs:

* How long will Moray be in level three?

As of Tuesday 11th May, Scottish Government are advising that a final decision on whether Moray remains in level three or moves to level two will not be made until ‘the end of this week.’ We hope that this period will allow every one of us in the region to make doubly sure we are doing all we can to prevent the spread of the virus and bring down infection rates.

* Could Moray go into level four or will there be local restrictions?

At present, there is no indication that any additional restrictions, i.e. a local lockdown, will be introduced. The hope from NHS Grampian is that we, as a region will be able to contain and reduce the level of infection.

* I have guests here – do they have to leave?
Guests who are currently enjoying their break do not have to leave. They are able to complete their booking as planned, returning home as soon as they can at the end of their stay.

* I have a booking for guests to arrive on Monday (or after), do I have to cancel them?

Assuming Moray remains in level three while the rest of the mainland moves into level two, the answer is regrettably, yes, as non-essential travel in and out of Moray, and between levels will not be permitted.

* Should people worry that visiting Moray Speyside is not safe?

No, whilst it is the case that our COVID-19 rates look alarming, we are a small region with a relatively small population – whilst concerning, we have to keep the number of infections in context.

Visitors can be sure that Moray Speyside is a safe place to visit, and when we move to level two along with the rest of the country, we look forward to welcoming them.

REMEMBER FACTS
If you have any symptoms you should book a test, via nhsinform.scot or call 0800 028 2816 if you cannot get online and must not attend asymptomatic testing sites.