Preston to remain in at tier-two Covid alert level as negotiations continue

A woman having a coronavirus test — A Covid test at one of Preston’s former community Covid testing facilities. Pic: Deepdale Community Association / Twitter

Lancashire is to stay in tier-two of the government’s new three-tier covid alert level system, despite talk of the county potentially being pushed into the highest level of concern.

Health secretary Matt Hancock told the House of Commons during Thursday (15 October) “no further decisions have yet been made ” in regards to Lancashire.

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You can see what the Health Secretary had to say above

The three-tier system came into play on Wednesday (14 October). All counties in England have been put into tiers of restrictions, depending on their current R-rate.

This news comes following Preston City Council’s leader calling for a ‘circuit breaker’ lockdown, which would see England go into a two or three week complete lockdown to help slow infection rates.

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Reacting to the government announcement this morning, Councillor Matthew Brown tweeted: “Really disappointing lack of engagement from government this morning.

“We have put effective public health interventions to them for weeks and are on the verge of an ineffective solution imposed that as it stands won’t protect health and damages the local economy.”

Really disappointing lack of engagement from government this morning. We have put effective public health interventions to them for weeks and are on the verge of an ineffective solution imposed that as it stands won't protect health and damages the local economy.
— Matthew Brown (@MatthewBrownLab) October 15, 2020

Discussions with the government are ongoing, but for now it has been decided that Lancashire will remain in the high level.

The latest coronavirus levels in your area can be seen below

A spokesperson for Lancashire County Council said: “Discussions are continuing with central government about the Covid alert level for Lancashire.

“For now, all of Lancashire remains in tier-2 – the high level. Please follow the restrictions.”

Restrictions for Tier Two currently allow bars, gyms and other hospitality and leisure centres to stay open until the 10pm curfew.

Residents should also ensure they stay in their social bubbles and social distance, wash their hands and wear a mask.

Do you think Lancashire should stay in tier-two? Let us know in the comments below