Council Leader responds to borough’s new tier 2 restrictions
Cheshire West and Chester will move into COVID-19 tier 2 from 2 December, after the Government reinstated the regional tiered restrictions to suppress the virus through the winter.

Cheshire West and Chester’s tier level has been decided by the Government, determined by the borough’s current COVID-19 infection rate. The decision has not involved any negotiations with local leaders.

Subject to Parliamentary approval, gyms and retail can open, as can restaurants, but pubs not serving meals will remain closed. There will be no mixing of households indoors, apart from support bubbles. A maximum of six can meet outdoors.

Wherever possible the number of journeys made should be reduced. Travel into Tier 3 areas should be avoided, except where necessary, such as work, education, for medical attention, youth services or caring responsibilities. Everyone who can work from home should do so.

COVID-19 infections have fallen in the last seven days; there were 635 positive cases between 15th and 21st November, a rate of 185 per 100,000 of population.

Responding to the government’s announcement, Council leader councillor Louise Gittins said: “I’m pleased that the collective efforts of our residents and businesses mean we will be in tier 2, rather than the higher level of restrictions in tier 3. But we can’t be complacent. We all need to stay the course, continue to reduce infection, and therefore get down to the lowest tier as soon as possible. The council will also continue to step up to drive down the virus through local contact tracing and an expansion of testing.

“I recognise that there will continue to be a severe impact on many of our local businesses, particularly in the hospitality sector. We will continue to provide local support wherever possible.

“For those people who work in retail, entertainment and personal care, it is good news that they will be able to trade in the run up to Christmas. We encourage all our communities to shop local and support these businesses.

“Let’s keep going to support each other and turn this around.”