Deep Cleansing of Richmond with Anti-COVID-19 Spray

Reassurance for shoppers and visitors ahead of retail reopening

Listen to Gabriel Irwin, Be Richmond Vice Chair, discussing the initiative on BBC Radio London

In what is believed to be the first action of its type in London, businesses in Richmond town centre are funding a programme of regular deep cleansing of people-facing surfaces in the town with an anti-COVID-19 viricidal disinfectant spray.

The disinfectant, which is harmless to passers-by and the environment, not only kills COVID-19 pathogens in seconds, it also creates a barrier against future infection and, once applied, will remain active for up to 72 hours after cleaning. It has been approved by European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

The programme which started on Saturday 6th June, sees an estimated 10,000 square metres of surface area being disinfected twice weekly. The aim is to protect and reassure visitors to the town as lockdown is relaxed and non-essential shops reopen on June 15th.

The story was covered by BBC TV. Watch the footage here:

The deep cleansing is part of an initiative by Be Richmond (the brand name of the Richmond Business Improvement District – BID), which comprises over 350 member businesses, to reassure visitors to the town that post-lockdown, Richmond is safe for shopping, dining and exploring.

The Richmond Safe S.P.A.C.E. Initiative will see retail and hospitality businesses receiving safe re-opening training and certification as well as agreeing to a safe operating code of conduct.

Be Richmond Manager, Ellen Amorina Storrar said:

“Many of our member businesses are in the retail and hospitality industries and have been badly hit by the lockdown and are keen to safely restart trading as soon as possible. We want to demonstrate that Richmond is a safe environment where people can feel confident and reassured. We will do whatever we can to achieve this. 

The disinfectant spray we are using is a genuine breakthrough in biosecurity. It not only kills COVID-19 pathogens, it also provides a barrier against their recurrence. However, deep cleansing whilst important and reassuring is only one part of our strategy. Social distancing, hand-washing and use of PPE equipment are still vitally important. Our businesses are playing their part by undergoing training and following a safe operating code. We want visitors to be reassured that our businesses are doing all they can to make Richmond a safe place to visit and explore. We are proud to be the first town in London to take this action.”.

For more information please email Be Richmond or call 020 8334 8269

Deep Cleansing of Richmond with Anti-COVID-19 Spray

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About Richmond

Richmond is an affluent residential district bordering the River Thames. Tranquil Kew Gardens attracts botanical enthusiasts and families with its huge Arboretum, 17th-century Kew Palace, and panoramic views from its Treetop Walkway. Herds of deer roam Richmond Park, a popular picnic spot. The Quadrant main street and nearby roads have eclectic shops, casual and upscale dining, and performances at Richmond Theatre.