New Year's Eve and new Tier 3 restrictions in force across Cornwall
Health officials are concerned about rising case numbers across the Duchy
As we get set to head into a new year, Cornwall gets new and tougher coronavirus restrictions.
From today, the Duchy is now under Tier 3: Very High Alert measures.
Cornwall Council is pledging to support residents and businesses across the Duchy.
The Council says it is concerned about rising case numbers, as well as the pressure on local health services, and is urging people to follow the new Tier 3 rules to control the virus and save lives.
Cllr Julian German, Leader of Cornwall Council, said: “Cases have been rising rapidly in Cornwall and everyone now needs to step up and play their part in stopping the spread of the virus.
“We know how tough the last year has been but as coronavirus ups its game, so must we. The vaccine is being rolled out as we speak but we can’t drop our guard now. We must all take responsibility, follow the guidance, protect the NHS and look after each other.”
In brief, the new restrictions in Cornwall mean:
You must not meet socially indoors with anybody you do not live with or have a support bubble with. You can meet people you do not live with in a group of up to six in some outdoor spaces, including parks, beaches and playgrounds, but not in private gardens.
Pubs and other hospitality venues must close but can provide a delivery and takeaway service.
Holidaymakers already in Cornwall are being urged to make their way home as soon as possible while people from outside the county should not be making plans to visit.
You can travel within your area for work, education and to provide care or medical assistance. However, you should avoid travelling outside your area and reduce the number of journeys you make wherever possible.
You must continue to follow Tier 3 rules when you travel to lower tiers.
Non-essential shops can open, as can gyms, hairdressers and other personal care businesses. Places of worship can open and weddings are allowed within local restrictions.
Hotels and other accommodation providers must also close, unless they are needed for specific work purposes where people cannot return home.
Outdoor sports, including golf and tennis, can continue, as can amateur team sports such as football. But unlike Tiers 1 and 2, spectators cannot go to a stadium to watch sport in Tier 3.
Everyone who can work from home should do so.
“We want our residents to know that we are here to support them. If you are struggling financially or need support in accessing food and essential supplies, we’re here for you. Similarly, if you are feeling anxious about the new measures, please get in touch with us and we will work with our partners to help and support you.”
Cllr Sally Hawken, Cornwall Council’s Portfolio Holder for Children, Wellbeing and Public Health
People are urged to remember the basic guidance – wash your hands regularly, use a face covering when physical distancing is not possible and try to keep your distance from those not in your household.
Following these simple steps could make a significant difference in reducing the transmission of Covid-19 and keeping our population safe.
“We are urging people to follow the lockdown rules and be mindful of how easily the virus can be spread.
“If you have any of the main Covid-19 symptoms – a new continuous cough, a high temperature, or a loss of taste or smell, you must self-isolate within your home and your household must continue to self-isolate while waiting for a test. You also must continue to isolate until you get your test results. Anyone who tests positive must self-isolate, along with all members of their household, whether they have symptoms or not.
“This can sound incredibly difficult at a time when families are meant to be together, supporting one another, but it is absolutely necessary to protect our most vulnerable residents and save lives.”
Rachel Wigglesworth, Director of Public Health for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly
“Our businesses and workers now face an extremely challenging time and we will be doing everything we can to secure and help them access the financial support they need.
“Our health and our economy are totally interconnected. Clearly, the faster the vaccination programme is rolled out in Cornwall, the sooner hard-hit hospitality businesses will be able to see light at the end of the tunnel."
Cllr Tim Dwelly, the Council’s Portfolio Holder for Culture, Economy and Planning
New Year’s Eve
In light of the new Tier 3 restrictions, the Council is urging people to stay at home this New Year’s Eve and not to meet up in groups.
The likes of St Ives, Newquay, Looe, Padstow and Truro, where people traditionally gather to watch the fireworks, have already made it clear that the usual events are cancelled and would urge people to celebrate at home instead of gathering outdoors to help keep everyone safe.
Rachel Wigglesworth said: “With no planned events happening we would urge our residents not to gather in the usual places and celebrate at home wherever they can.”
For more information on support in Cornwall during the pandemic see the Council's website.
For support with your mental health, visit the mental health pages.