This is what would change if Doncaster is moved down into Tier 2 tomorrow

TThe average rate of Covid-19 cases has fallen in Doncaster since the town was first plunged into Tier Three lockdown alongside the whole of South Yorkshire on October 24, with the rate down to 190.5 new cases per 100,000 people in the seven days to December 9.

Under the current ‘very high’ rules people in the town and across the region are forbidden from mixing with other households indoors or in private gardens.

Residents are able to meet groups of up to six in outdoor areas such as parks but bars, pubs and restaurants are only open for takeaway services.

Indoor entertainment venues such as casinos, theatres and cinemas have to stay shut but shops, gyms and hairdressers are kept open.

However, if Doncaster is moved down into Tier Two in the lockdown review tomorrow (Wednesday, December 16) hospitality businesses which serve substantial meals would be able to welcome back customers for the first time since the national lockdown.

Instead of the previous 10pm curfew, pubs, restaurants and bars would stay open until 11pm but alcohol would only be served alongside a full meal under the ‘high’ measures.

People in the town would then also be able to attend sport events of up to 2,000 spectators or at 50 percent of the venue’s capacity in Tier Two.

There is still uncertainty over whether ministers will move South Yorkshire into Tier Two, as Doncaster and Rotherham have significantly higher rates of infection than Sheffield and Barnsley.

Health secretary Matt Hancock hinted yesterday that Leeds, which has a rate of 136.4, could be moved down a tier.

However, South Yorkshire mayor Dan Jarvis insisted last week that it was ‘highly unlikely’ the region would be moved down to Tier Two.

Mr Hancock yesterday announced that London, alongside areas in Hertfordshire and Essex, would have be moved up into the harshest level restrictions from tomorrow due to rising infection rates.

After this week’s lockdown announcement, there will be another tier review just before Christmas on December 23 – which means Doncaster will still have a chance to move down a tier before the new year.

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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 subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.