HOUSE-buyers are now able to start visiting show homes at new sites as developers begin to re-open their doors.

Following the government’s announcement that housing transactions in England can take place again, Barratt Developments Yorkshire East started welcoming back customers from Thursday.

Safety measures put in place include protective Perspex screens, retractable barriers, strict social distancing and, where necessary, personal protective equipment (PPE). There are also intercom systems and door locks to enable customers to speak with sales teams before entering offices.

Customers will initially only be able to visit the sales centres and do physical viewings by appointment, with one household visiting one property at a time.

The move follows a phased restart of many construction sites last week with 12 sites opening across the region, including The Chocolate Works in York, Saxon Gate in Stamford Bridge and Fairfield Croft in Skelton.

Barratt has also signed up to the new government and industry Charter for Safe Working Practice – COVID-19, which supports best practice being adopted across the industry.

Daniel Smith, managing director of Barratt Developments Yorkshire East, said: “We back the government’s decision to unlock the property market which will help to drive the country’s economic recovery. We are doing this safely with clear measures in place that protect our customers and employees. We will be carefully re-opening our sales offices from next week.”