Outdoor civil weddings and partnership ceremonies legalised in England and Wales from next month

Civil wedding and partnership ceremonies will be able to take place outdoors for the first time in England and Wales from next month.

Currently, laws require ceremonies to take place in an approved room or permanent structure – unlike in Scotland, where outdoor ceremonies are permitted.

From July 1, however, the entire event will be permitted outside in a move to legalise outdoor ceremonies.

Justice Secretary Robert Buckland said: “A couple’s wedding day is one of the most special times in their lives and this change will allow them to celebrate it the way that they want.

“At the same time, this step will support the marriage sector by providing greater choice and helping venues to meet demand for larger ceremonies.”

The change will benefit almost 75% of weddings that are non-religious and take place on approved premises, as well as civil partnerships, according to the Government.

It will be welcomed as a boost for the wedding industry after the hardships of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The law change will be introduced through a statutory instrument meaning a vote will not need to take place.

In a minor relaxation of coronavirus restrictions in England, Monday (June 21) will see the 30-person cap on weddings lifted to allow more guests at ceremonies.

The relaxation of rules will see venues instead asked to limit numbers based on space, with social distancing measures enforced and masks worn.