The new Covid rules when lockdown lifts

Sunderland and the rest of the North East will be placed into Tier 3 restrictions when the national lockdown ends.

T h e G ove r n m e nt h a s confirmed the Sunderland, South Tyneside, Newcastle, Northumberland, County Durham,NorthTynesideand Gateshead have been placed into Tier 3.

L at e s t f i g u re s show Sunderland has seen a drop in the number of confirmed cases. In the seven days up to November 21, the Covid case rate was 286.3 per 100,000 people which is down from 413.4 per 100,000 people for the seven days prior – up to November 14.

So what are the Tier 3 restrictions?

Pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes will have to stay closed except those operating a takeaway or click and collect service.

People must not meet socially indoors or in most outdoorplaceswith anybodyyou do not live with or in a support bubble with – this includes in any private garden or at most outdoor venues.

People must not socialise in a group of more than six in some other outdoor public spaces, including parks and beaches.

Accommodation such as hotels, B&Bs, campsites, and guest houses must stay closed.

There will be no public attendance at spectator sport or indoor performances.

No n- e s s e nt i a l s h o p s , gyms, hairdressers, beauty salons, and the wider leisure sector will reopen in Tier 3, as wellas collective worship and weddings. Outdoor sports can also resume.

The Government is optimistic that restrictions can be gradually reduced in the run-up to spring, providing vaccines are approved.