The “stay at home” order in Wales will be lifted and replaced by a “stay local” message this weekend – with people allowed to socialise outdoors in small groups.
From Saturday, four people from two households will be able to meet outdoors to socialise, including in gardens.
Outdoor sports facilities, including basketball courts, tennis courts and golf courses, will also be able to reopen, and indoor care home visits will restart for single designated visitors.
In a further easing of coronavirus restrictions, hairdressers and barbers will reopen for appointments from Monday – the same day that all primary pupils and those in qualifications years will return to school.
Schools will have the flexibility to bring Year 10 and 12 pupils back, and more learners will return to colleges.
Younger primary pupils have already been able to return to their classrooms since 22 February.
Under the Welsh government’s phased approach to lifting lockdown, non-essential retail can return from 22 March as restrictions are lifted on what can be sold in shops that are already open.
Garden centres will also be able to reopen.
All shops will be able to welcome customers from 12 April – the same date as in England.
First Minister Mark Drakeford is pursuing ‘step-by-step changes’ to lockdown restrictions
In an announcement on Friday, Mr Drakeford will say: “We are taking a phased approach to unlocking each sector – starting with schools.
“We will make step-by-step changes each week to gradually restore freedoms.
“We will monitor each change we make, so we know what impact each change has had on Wales’ public health situation.”
The first minister will also announce an additional £150m to support businesses affected by ongoing restrictions.
Mr Drakeford had extended the “stay at home” order for three weeks last month, although he also outlined the beginning of pupils’ return to school.
