Lifting of Plan B restrictions cautiously welcomed in York
But City of York leaders are urging people to continue to take care, warning covid rates still remain high
News that all Plan B restrictions will be lifted next week are being cautiously welcomed in York.
The City Council is urging people to continue to take care, warning covid rates still remain higher than what they would like.
The Prime Minister confirmed on Wednesday (19 January) that things like the mandatory wearing of face masks will no longer be required from next Thursday (27 January).
From today, though secondary school pupils across York and North Yorkshire can remove face masks in classrooms from today (20 January).
However, coverings will still be needed in communal areas like corridors until next Thursday.
In response to the measures being lifted, Councillor Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council said: “It is welcome news that case rates are falling across the city as a result of the efforts of our incredible communities. Despite this, case rates are still higher across York than we would like. Residents and businesses across the city have been incredible throughout the pandemic, and whilst it is welcome that some restrictions are being lifted next week, we ask that people continue to take as many precautions as they can to keep themselves and others safe.
“The COVID situation is considerably brighter than it has been in recent weeks and that is testament to our incredible NHS and frontline staff who are treating patients, administering vaccines and supporting our communities and businesses. I am sure they will continue to do all they can to keep people safe and stop COVID from spreading. I know that we will continue to do all we can to support schools, businesses and communities, as we have done throughout the pandemic.”
Fiona Phillips, Assistant Director for Public Health at City of York Council said: “These changes have been made possible by the huge numbers of people across the city who have been vaccinated. Over 88% of people over the age of 16 in the city have had at least one dose, we are also seeing numbers of 12-15 year olds being vaccinated in the city increase which is encouraging. The vaccines are safe and effective and helping us through the pandemic. If you haven’t yet had your first jab or your booster, it’s not too late and every vaccine really does make a difference.
“No one wants restrictions on the way we live our lives. Despite a recent fall in cases in the city they remain higher than anyone would like. As we move next week to having fewer restrictions we will be asking people to continue to take certain precautions to stop COVID from spreading, including continuing to wear a face covering in busy public spaces and all of the other things we have all gotten used to over the past two years; washing our hands, getting the vaccine and letting fresh air in if seeing friends indoors.
“Our testing sites and pharmacies across the city are continuing to hand out symptom-free tests too so please continue to use them so you can see your friends and family and support our local businesses safely. Find out more about symptom-free tests at over on our website”.