Government explains method in placing South Yorkshire in Tier 3

Restrictions include pubs offering ‘takeaway services’ and a ban on fans and theatre goers attending events. Tiers 1 and 2, which include London, can have a limited number of spectators.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said ‘extra resources’ would be available for areas who fall into Tier 3.

Government guidance on South Yorkshire on putting the county into Tier 3, said: “This area is improving with case rates falling in all four lower tier local authorities.

“However, case rates in all ages and rates in those over 60 remain very high (274/100,000 and 223/100,000 respectively). Positivity is 11 per cent and there is pressure on local NHS Trusts.”

Public health experts in Government said they made the decisions based on the following:

Case detection rates in all age groups Case detection rates in the over 60s The rate at which cases are rising or falling Positivity rate (the number of positive cases detected as a percentage of tests taken) Pressure on the NHS.

Doncaster mayor Ros Jones, said: “I am disappointed that Doncaster and wider South Yorkshire has been placed back into Tier 3 restrictions.

“The people of Doncaster and South Yorkshire have done well in bringing down the rate of infection, but following this announcement today we must continue to drive down infections locally in the hope of moving to Tier 2 at the next review and in time for Christmas.”

The regulations will require the Government to review the allocations every 14 days, with the first review complete by the end of 16 December.

In Tier 3, hospitality will close except for delivery, drive-through and takeaway, hotels and other accommodation providers must close – except for specific exemptions, such as people staying for work purposes, where people are attending a funeral, or where they cannot return home – and indoor entertainment venues such as cinemas, theatres and bowling allies must also close.

Elite sport will be played without spectators. Organised outdoor sport can resume, but the Government will advise against higher risk contact sports.

Sheffield City Region mayor Dan Jarvis, said: “We need absolute clarity and consistency from the government about the criteria for areas moving between the Tiers. We need a test and trace system that is fit for purpose and we need clear communications.

“Any restrictions must come hand in hand with a robust package of economic support to protect livelihoods. There must be no gaps in support for people and businesses affected by COVID.

“It is now essential we get a roadmap to get us out of Tier 3 as a matter of urgency. Lockdown must not become limbo.”

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