People in Leeds must currently follow the strictest Tier 3 restrictions, but the number of new infections is now showing as positive downward trend. As Matt Hancock hints that Leeds could move down to Tier 2 next week, we take a look at how the infection rate in Leeds has changed since the start of the pandemic. Here's the story of how Leeds ended up in Tier 3, in pictures:
13. Tier 3 announced for Leeds - then scrapped
Week to November 3 - rate of 447.8 | West Yorkshire was set to get the toughest Tier 3 restrictions from Monday November 2 amid rising infection rates. However, the Government then announced a second national lockdown, which replaced the tiered system. Leeds remained in Tier 2 until the lockdown was enforced on November 5. Photo: Danny Lawson/PA Wire
14. November
The national lockdown measures appeared to be effective in Leeds, with the infection rate dropping quickly during November. The rate had halved by the end of the month and was showing a positive downward trend. Week to November 10 - rate of 448.6 | Week to November 17 - rate of 374.3 | Week to November 24 - rate of 220.8 | Week to December 1 - rate of 154.7 Photo: Danny Lawson/PA Wire
15. December - Tier 3
Week to December 8: rate of 136.8 | Despite a falling infection rate, Leeds was placed in Tier 3 under the new tiered system of local restrictions, which came into force on December 2. Bars, pubs and restaurants remain closed, although non-essential shops and personal services reopened. Photo: Danny Lawson/PA Wire
16. Will Leeds move down to Tier 2?
Leeds Council is calling on the government to move the city into Tier 2 when tiers are reviewed on December 16 and Health Secretary Matt Hancock has appeared to suggest Leeds will move down. Any decision taken on Wednesday will be published on Thursday, before coming into force just past midnight on Saturday.