Wiltshire Council moves to Tier 3
The local authority area is now placed in the 'very high alert' category (from 31st December)
Last updated 31st Dec 2020
Rising coronavirus cases and an increasing number of Covid-19 patients at Salisbury District Hospital means tougher restrictions are needed.
The Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, has announced that the changes came into force at one minute past midnight (31st December).
Here's the main difference between the current Tier 2 and Tier 3:
- In Tier 2 you can meet in a group of up to 6 outside in a private garden or public space - in Tier 3 you're NOT allowed to meet in a private garden
- In Tier 2 you can meet in a group of up to 6 outside in a private garden or public space - in Tier 3 you're NOT allowed to meet in a private garden
- All pubs and hospitality venues have to close except for takeaway until the region goes back into lower levels of restrictions
- Shops can remain open
- Hotels, B&Bs, guest houses and campsites must close unless exempt
- Gyms can continue to open but group exercise indoors including fitness and dance should not go ahead. Saunas and steam rooms should close.
- You should avoid travelling outside Tier 3 other than for work, education, medical attention or caring responsibilities.
You can read the full guidance on the Government's website.
Cllr Philip Whitehead, Leader of Wiltshire Council, said:
“We have seen a recent rise in Covid-19 cases so we all have to keep playing our part and support each other as much as possible.
“We of course don’t want to see these types of restrictions in our county but they’re in place for a very good reason, and I hope being in Tier 3 keeps more people safe. Our message to everyone is to please stay at home where possible and stay local.
“As we have done throughout the pandemic we will be here to support people and businesses as much as we’re able to. People in Wiltshire have been so good at doing what is asked of them and we’re in no doubt, as tough as it is at the moment, that they will keep going and continue to look out for one another.”
WHAT ABOUT OTHER AREAS?
The New Forest District Council area, Swindon and the Isle of Wight are being moved up to Tier 4 under the latest review.
That means all non-essential shops must close, there should be no household mixing indoors and only two people can meet in outdoor spaces.
The Test Valley remains in Tier 4, as does the rest of Hampshire.
Councillor Keith Mans, Leader of Hampshire County Council, said:
“Central Government has confirmed that the whole of our local authority area will be under Covid-19 Tier 4 restrictions, from 31 December.
“This comes as no surprise following a surge of cases across Hampshire and its surrounding local authority areas and is a reflection of the seriousness of the situation. I cannot stress enough how important it is to heed the Government’s advice to stay at home, particularly those who are elderly or clinically extremely vulnerable, and to limit travel to essential journeys only.
“While I fully understand that people may be fed up with the restrictions being imposed on our everyday lives, it’s crucial that we get transmission rates down. We must continue to work together, follow the rules for our Tier and protect ourselves, our loved ones and our communities, Positively, the vaccine is now rolling out offering vital protection to the most vulnerable – bringing us hope for a healthier and happier spring.”
Dorset moves up to Tier 3, while Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole is escalated to Tier 4.