‘Avoid the temptation to break the lockdown’
People in zone asked not to visit town unless it is essential
PEOPLE living in the new Leicester coronavirus lockdown zone, which includes parts of Charnwood, have been asked to avoid the temptation to visit places such as Loughborough unless it is absolutely essential.
Areas of Charnwood have been locked down again as part of restrictions imposed this week in Leicester.
And this has led Charnwood Borough Council leader Coun Jonathan Morgan to appeal to the public not to break the restrictions “as lives and livelihoods are at stake”.
Non-essential shops have been forced to shut in Leicester, along with Birstall, Thurmaston, Wanlip and Hamilton Lea in Charnwood, and schools will shut to most pupils from Thursday as part of restrictions imposed after a rise in coronavirus cases, as Health Secretary Matt Hancock told MPs.
Coun Morgan has urged people in the areas affected by the lockdown in Leicester to follow the guidance for their own safety and the safety of others.
Coun Morgan said: “Clearly these are worrying times for everyone but it is important we take the steps set out by Government and get this localised outbreak under control as swiftly as possible.
“I would strongly encourage people to follow these restrictions in the areas set out, including Birstall, Thurmaston, Wanlip and Hamilton Lea in our borough. You must do this for your own safety and for the safety of others.
“I would particularly highlight the Health Secretary’s advice about people within the areas affected to only travel if essential.
“It may be tempting to leave the lockdown area when neighbouring areas are opening up more but please consider the impact further travel may have. We have to get on top of this virus as lives and livelihoods are at stake.
“I can assure you Charnwood Borough Council will be working with other agencies to support residents and businesses in the affected areas. We will also be lobbying Government for further financial support to help people and businesses.”
Coun Nick Rushton, leader of Leicestershire County Council, said: “Protecting residents is our main concern and we’re working closely with Leicester City Council and the Government to bring down the number of cases.
“Clearly coronavirus does not adhere to lines on a map. And although county rates are below the national and regional averages, we can’t be complacent and it makes sense to step up restrictions in areas closer to the city.”
In response to the restrictions, Leicestershire Police said: “This is a dynamic situation and we will adjust accordingly providing proportionate policing under the relevant legislation to help keep people safe.
“Our approach has always been clear that we will use the four E’s – Engage, Explain, Encourage and Enforce where necessary.”
The Mirror reported that, when asked about people from Leicester travelling elsewhere Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “We recommend against all but essential travel and of course we’re prepared to take further action if we need to.”