Local leaders ‘left without the tools and resources’ to control the virus, claims South Yorkshire mayor

Sheffield, Doncaster, Rotherham and Barnsley have been placed into the Tier 2 restriction zone with extra measures brought in an attempt to bring cases down.

On top of what is already in place, other restrictions state: people must not meet with anybody outside their household or support bubble in any indoor setting; they must not meet in a group of more than six outside and should aim to reduce the number of journeys they make where possible. If they need to travel, they should walk or cycle where possible and avoid busy times and routes on public transport.

Tier 2 restrictions have meant that the county’s hospitality sector has avoided closure which is mandatory in a Tier 3 setting.

Sheffield City Region Mayor Dan Jarvis said: “We are entering a new phase in our efforts to overcome the coronavirus and we face a difficult winter unless we stop its spread. I accept the need for new restrictions, but the Government is failing to grasp the scale of action required.

“Local leaders face a situation where we are left without the tools and resources to control the virus, until cases spiral to the ‘very high’ alert level. This is not the right approach.

“The new system brings restrictions without additional economic support at the ‘high’ alert level. This lands another blow for our high streets and businesses who face takings and trade falling further.

“We need a local lockdown lifeline so businesses, suppliers and the self-employed are fairly compensated from restrictions which cut their income. I will fight to ensure workers and businesses get the backing they need to survive.

“People in South Yorkshire must prepare themselves for a new set of rules, and to limit their contact with other households. If the restrictions are to work, they must be crystal clear to command people’s confidence, and be part of a coherent plan which will get us out of local restrictions.”

Regulations for all three local alert levels were laid on Monday and are due to come into force on Wednesday, subject to the approval of Parliament.

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