The RFU has stated that clubs can now re-open their facilities and restart training from Monday (June 1) if they wish to, provided that social distancing rules can be met.
The UK Government announced on Saturday (May 30) that competitive sport can now return behind closed doors.
Rugby training must take place outside and either be with members from the same household, or in a group of up to six people from different households who remain two metres apart at all times.
However, the RFU also emphasised that “rugby activity remains suspended” with the authority confirming to Sport in Staffs earlier this week that no start date for the 2020/21 season has yet been set.
Among many guidelines on resuming training, the sports body said that equipment from different households must not be shared, physical contact is prohibited and players must wash their hands regularly.
Coaching may take place but only as a part of a group of six with people advised not to mix with too many people from other households.
Clubhouses will be allowed to open but only for access to toilets and for takeaway food and drink.
A spokesperson for the RFU said: “Each club should make individual decisions about when their facilities are ready to open and can be operated safely.
“Until a club believes it is safe and responsible to re-open, it should remain closed. Facilities that are open must follow relevant government guidance.
“We are producing a roadmap to show the steps that we aim to take to reboot rugby as lockdown measures ease further. We will share this with the rugby community by the end of next week.
“In addition, we are looking at the impact of the above on restarting adult and age grade competitions and playing opportunities, plans are nearing completion, we expect to be able to announce intent based on different scenarios for next season’s start date in the next few weeks.”
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WE HAVE MOVED! 