Birmingham and the West Midlands is to be placed under Tier 3 restrictions from 2nd December when the current national lockdown expires, the government has today announced (Thursday 26th November).
Neighbouring Worcestershire will be placed in Tier 2.
Under the new, stricter Tier 3 restrictions, which the government hope will keep COVID-19 cases under control, allowing for some relaxation of rules over the Christmas period, non-essential retail, gyms, and hairdressers and personal care businesses can re-open; schools, colleges and universities will remain open; but pubs and restaurants will not be able to re-open other than for takeaway or delivery only.
People will still not be able to mix in their homes or private outdoor spaces but the Rule of Six will apply to allow people to meet in public spaces such as parks.
Grass roots sports can recommence, with safety restrictions, but there will still be no spectators at organised sporting events.
Residents of Tier 3 restricted zones are asked to avoid travelling out of their area, unless for essential reasons, such as work or education.
Click to enlarge image
Full details on restrictions in all three new tiers [gov.uk]
Today’s announcement comes after the government said on Tuesday (24th November) that families across the UK will be able to form a ‘Christmas Bubble’ for 5 days to share the festive period fully – although people are advised to think carefully about the effect of including any older or vulnerable family members.
Leader of Birmingham City Council Ian Ward said that, while the priority is to protect citizens and communities, the stricter Tier 3 rules could be devastating for businesses in the hospitality sector.
He said: “As has been the case throughout this devastating pandemic, our key focus has to be protecting the people and communities of Birmingham from the risks posed by Covid-19. Birmingham and the West Midlands will only get out of these tough measures if we all continue to follow the rules and we must all continue to play our part to keep our families, friends and neighbours safe.
“But as many council leaders, MPs, business leaders and others have been saying for a long time, we need a clear roadmap out of these restrictions and a meaningful package of support for jobs and businesses, especially in the hospitality sector, so we can focus on what needs to be done to keep people safe – and ensure our economy continues to function in an effective way.
“The crisis faced by hospitality businesses across Birmingham is of particular concern from an economic perspective – a crisis that would have been exacerbated whether our city was placed in Tier 2 or 3. Many businesses in this previously thriving sector are warning they may not survive the coming months if they are dealt the double blow of more restrictions and inadequate financial support.”