The government announced today that York will move to Tier 3 from 00:01 on 31 December the final day of 2020.
Following the announcement city leaders are calling for another citywide effort to stop the spread of the virus and reverse the recent trend.
In recent weeks York has seen an increase in the number of cases of Coronavirus after our city-wide efforts brought cases down to around 60 per 100,000.
The latest data shows York is now at 240.2 per 100,000 with cases increasing rapidly, reflecting the regional and national pattern.
Following the action taken by the Government in the South over recent weeks, the news of new strains in the country which spread faster and the impact that a continuing increase would have on local hospitals has seen York move to tier 3 of restrictions, after being in Tier 2 for the last 4 weeks.
Councillor Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council said:
“Today’s news means further changes to the way we live our lives. This is a cruel and unforgiving virus which has impacted all our lives. In recent weeks Coronavirus rates across the city and country have increased rapidly making the change in restrictions necessary.
“We know how much people have done to slow the spread over the last year. It is now time to redouble our efforts to keep friends, families and neighbours safe.
“These changes have a huge impact on businesses who have invested and adapted to be COVID secure. There will be support available and we will share more details imminently, continuing to do all we can to support residents and businesses across the city.
“I want to thank everyone in York, after what has been a really hard year. We have shown before that our efforts can reduce the number of cases in the city and we must do so again.”
Sharon Stoltz, Director for Public Health at City of York Council said:
“Whilst no one wants more changes to restrictions they are needed following a rise in cases in the city.
Wearing a face covering when in public places, keeping a safe distance and washing our hands regularly remain vital, as is self-isolating when told to by test and trace. I would also urge those eligible to get regular symptom-free tests to help us identify cases quickly and stop the virus from spreading further.
We’ve come a long way together and made so many sacrifices. They have made a difference and saved lives. With those most at risk from Coronavirus being vaccinated there are reasons to be optimistic. Whilst the vaccine is being rolled out we must all keep doing all we can to keep ourselves and those we love safe.
We know this is a concerning and challenging time for people, especially those most at risk. By limiting our contacts and remembering hand, face, space we can keep ourselves and others safe.”
The Council’s helpline continues to be there to support those who need it on 01904 551550 and COVID19help@york.gov.uk. Please get in touch with the Council if you need support.
Details on what you can and cannot do in tier three is available on the government website