On December 2nd, as the nation came out of lockdown, every area of England was assigned to either Tier 1, 2 or 3, with local restrictions differing dependent on alert level. Along with the vast majority of the country, Swindon and Wiltshire were both placed into Tier 2 – High Alert.
The way we go about our daily lives could change this coming weekend, with the potential of some areas moving into the toughest restrictions before Christmas and some into the lower restrictions.
When is the Tier system review?
When the latest tier restrictions were implemented, the government announced that the review would take place two weeks later. This means the review should take place on Wednesday, December 16th.
It is believed the announcement on any changes to the tier allocations will be announced on Thursday December 17th with the changes coming into force on Saturday December 19th.
How will decisions be made?
The following criteria will be used to determine whether an area will move up or down.
- cases numbers in all age groups
- cases numbers specifically in the over 60s
- rates by which cases are falling or rising
- infection rates per 100,000 people
- the projected pressures on the NHS
What changes if Swindon moves to Tier 3 – Very High?
The hospitality and entertainment industry will take the biggest hit should we go up into the strictest tier.
Pubs and restaurants will only be allowed to stay open for a takeaway service.
Cinemas, theatres and other indoor entertainment venues will also have to close, such as bowling alleys, bingo halls and skating rinks.
Organised indoor sport, physical activity and exercise classes cannot take place however gyms can remain open and people can take part in outdoor sports such as golf and tennis, as well as amateur team sports such as Sunday-league football.
There will be no spectators allowed at the County Ground or any other local events.
How about is Swindon drops to Tier 1 – Medium?
The Rule of Six returns in Tier 1, with up to six members of different households allowed to mix both indoors and outdoors.
The limits for spectators at the County Ground and other events will increase to the lower of 4,000 or 50% capacity. Indoors, the limit will be 1,000 people.
