Higher capacities to be allowed in nightclubs and indoor sports venues

Capacity limits in nightclubs and indoor sports venues will increase from this weekend as authorities further loosen the Covid-19 restrictions. 

Nightlife businesses will be able to welcome 80% of their total capacity, up from 70%, while gyms and indoor sports venues will again be able to see 100% capacities, up from 80%. 

This means that professional basketball games will be able to accommodate as many fans as the venue can fit. 

The news was announced by the spokesperson of the Catalan government, Patrícia Plaja, in a press conference on Tuesday. Authorities will meet on Wednesday to formally approve the new measures. 

Despite the further reopening, Plaja has called for "caution" as "the time has not yet come" to return to full capacities in nightclubs. However, she acknowledged that "progress can be made." 

Plaja also took the opportunity to remind citizens that the use of face masks is mandatory in nightlife establishments and indoor sports venues. 

Since nightclubs reopened earlier this month, industry representatives have warned that the obligation will be very difficult to enforce, and warned that they cannot act as "the dance police."

Check out our latest podcast, published on Saturday, October 16, for all updates on the ease of Covid-19 measures in Catalonia: