British Prime Minister Boris Johnson provided uplifting news to millions this week, revealing the government's "roadmap for easing COVID-19 restrictions", which could potentially see the return of large capacity live music events from June 21. However, phasing toward the end of such restrictions would only occur if the "four-stage plan" is strictly adhered to by members of the public.

This would involve the vaccine programme continuing to go to plan, evidence showing that vaccines are reducing deaths and numbers requiring hospital treatment, no surges in hospital admissions, and no new variants that change the risk of lifting restrictions.

Workers within the UK live music industry and night time economy continue to encourage the government to continue supporting the sector financially whilst uncertainty remains.

Mark Dayvd, CEO of Music Venue Trust commented: "It is good to hear the government provide conditions under which initially socially distanced events, and then fuller capacity events, can take place. Based on this information, it is now possible to imagine how we revive live in grassroots music venues and develop that work into the full return of our domestic music scene".

The nightclub industry has taken a significant hit during because of COVID, but this recent news brings fresh hope that perhaps there is light at the end of a long, dark tunnel. Boris Johnson stated that the UK is on a "one-way road to freedom" following a "wretched year", and we sincerely hope he is right.

In light of the news, Reading & Leeds Festival is said to be going ahead this August and more live events are expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks and months. Do we dare to dream of Notting Hill Carnival 2021?