THE Dolphin Centre in Poole will be extending its opening hours in the run up to Christmas.

From Wednesday (December 2) the centre will be open from 8am to 8pm, Mondays to Saturdays, and 10:30am to 5:30pm on Sundays.

Although the centre will open 8am-6.30pm on Christmas Eve.

Shoppers are also being encouraged to check individual retailers’ websites for further information on specific store opening hours.

John Grinnell, manager at the Dolphin Shopping Centre, said: “The Government-enforced lockdown meant for many that Christmas shopping was put on hold.

"Usually, Christmas is a busy time for us at the centre, and we hope that by offering these extended opening hours, we can provide shoppers with more opportunities and flexibility to visit the centre at quieter times.”

Prior to the lockdown, the centre invested in a range of new Covid health and safety measures.

Contactless hand sanitiser stations have been positioned throughout the centre, whilst enhanced and more frequent cleaning routines are being carried out daily on frequent touch points.

The centre has adapted its layout to reflect social distancing measures.

A one-way system remains in place, along with required social distancing floor markers.

In addition, each retailer also has a dedicated team member at its entrance to manage the number of shoppers inside.

Shoppers are encouraged to visit www.dolphinshoppingcentre.co.uk and check the centre’s social media channels for updates on opening times.

The shopping centre has also highlighted its quietest times, to help with social distancing.

These are 9-11am, Monday to Saturday; 3-8pm, Monday to Saturday; midday-4.30pm on Sunday.