Massive queues at IKEA Leeds as store reopens with strict new rules

This video shows the length of the queue outside the store in Birstall Shopping Park, which opened at 10am this morning (Monday).

It is one of 19 stores across England and Northern Ireland reopening today.

The footage was captured by Richard McCan, founder of the iCan Academy.

What's changed at IKEA Leeds?

New safety measures have been introduced as well as reduced opening hours.

The company has asked shoppers to shop alone.

The only exceptions are if shoppers need special assistance or need to bring their children with them.

IKEA asks that if assistance is required, that the second person be from the same household.

There will also be a queuing system in place to manage entry into the store.

Staff and signage will be helping customers stick to social distancing guidelines inside the shop.

Hand sanitisers will be stationed throughout the store, as will new protective screens at key points such as checkouts.

The store will be card/cashless payments only.

IKEA restaurants will be closed.

Takeaway is being introduced in other stores but not the Leeds store.

The Småland crèche and other indoor and outdoor play areas will remain closed.

IKEA will be open from 10am to 8pm Monday to Saturday.

On Sunday, it will be open from 11am to 5pm.