Tighter lockdown restrictions branded ‘backward’
HYNDBURN council leader Miles Parkinson has called on the public to adhere to the latest coronavirus restrictions, and “do the right thing”.
The borough was among five districts across Lancashire put on local lockdown from last week. The Government made the shock announcement on July 30, declaring the lockdown would be implemented from midnight.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced the news on Twitter, with Greater Manchester and parts of Yorkshire also affected by the restrictions.
Communication of the decision has been heavily criticised, with many including Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer suggesting the announcement would have been better suited to a press conference.
It means that once again, residents will have tough restrictions on their lives as the UK attempts to curb a second wave of Covid-19.
Mr Hancock said people from different households - outside support bubbles - would be banned from meeting each other indoors or in private gardens.
Tightened restrictions have also been placed on socialising with other households in other indoor public venues such as pubs, restaurants, cafes, shops, places of worship, community centres, leisure and entertainment venues, or visitor attractions.
The planned reopening of other businesses from August 1 such as casinos, skating rinks and bowling alleys has also been delayed.
Council leader Parkinson said: “We understand the new rules in place will be disruptive for many people and we would like to reassure residents that Hyndburn Borough Council are working hard and in unity with many organisations to reduce the transmission of Covid-19 within our community as quickly as possible.
“The new rules announced by central Government are in place to keep people safe. The sooner we can reduce the number of coronavirus cases, the sooner restrictions will be eased. Please work with us, follow all measures in place and do the right thing. Thank you for the continued support and for making sacrifices to protect our vulnerable residents and NHS.”
Hyndburn MP Sara Britcliffe said she has been contacted by many people regarding the new restrictions.
In a series of posts on her Facebook page she wrote: “This decision reflects a change in the prevalence of the virus across both the wider North West area, and in Hyndburn and Haslingden specifically where it is now increasing, particularly inside houses. The measures announced... are targeted and are intended to avoid a local lockdown.
“I am currently working around the clock to support everyone during this time. I am also in constant contact with the Department for Health and Social Care who will be reviewing the restrictions.
“It is vital that we all follow the new restrictions so that we are able to see these measures eased as soon as possible and that we continue to follow the social distancing measures.”