Small uplift in weekly mobility

[22 January] Vehicular mobility again remains fairly constant this week, with the running average at 77% of the baseline, taken in January 2020. Despite tough restrictions, which are set to continue for another few weeks, people in NI continue to move for essential purposes. Unlike the initial lockdown in March, shielding advice has not been widely distributed, so older audiences who would generally be less likely to shop online, continue to make journeys.

Pedestrian activity is largely unchanged too, with the running average in grocery and pharmacy locations at 77% of the baseline. This is a small drop compared to last week (-6%) however footfall at essential retailers remains strong.

Footfall within workplace environments is around half of that seen this time last year (54%). Staff continue to commute to work on many of the construction sites within Belfast and regional towns, adding to this figure.

Retail and recreation areas continue to see minimal footfall, as all non-essential retailers and the hospitality sector remains closed. The weekly average dropped slightly to 39%, as essential retailers continue to draw smaller audiences into main retail hubs, away from larger mixed-use retail destinations. In addition, the number of businesses classified as essential retailers has grown since the initial lockdown, while restaurants are offering takeaway and delivery services.