Staying in tier three is “right for Rotherham” as infections rise “alarmingly”

South Yorkshire has been in Tier 3 lockdown measures, where pubs and restaurants are only allowed to operate as a takeaway and households are banned from mixing, for almost eight weeks.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock addressed the House of Commons on the changes in the tier system this morning (December 17).

As of December 11, Rotherham has a case rate of 234 per 100,000 people – the highest in South Yorkshire, and above the national average of 197.

Despite today’s announcement, the rules will still be relaxed over Christmas, although Home Secretary Priti Patel today said everyone should “have a smaller, more local and safer” Christmas.

Between 23 and 27 December, Rotherham residents can still form a “Christmas bubble” of people from three households, and travel between tiers to see their bubble.

Councillor Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council, says the decision was the right one for Rotherham, given that the infection rate is rising “alarmingly”.

“The hospital is still very busy, certainly a couple of days ago they still had 120-some COVID inpatients, the peak earlier in the year was was in the low 70s.

“We’ree still seeing dozens of people sadly passing away on a weekly basis.

“I think probably at this point in time, it’s right for the government to exercise caution and to maintain restrictions in Rotherham.”

“We all want to have a bit of a break over Christmas and myself included, want to see family members.

“In fairness to the government there is a reality that people are going to try and have some sort of Christmas celebration, regardless of the rules.

“I think we’ve probably gone a bit too far in relaxing them, I think five days is an unreasonable relaxation.”

When the new tier announcements were made in October, the government consulted with council leaders as to which tier would be best for their area.

However, this time that was not the case.

Coun Read said: “They even cancelled the briefing for us this morning, so that’s how much input we had.

“I think they found their experience with trying to work with councils particularly frustrating, so at least this time they’re being honest about not paying any attention to us.”

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In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.