Leeds city centre quiet on first day of Covid-19 local lockdown

There were some shoppers - most wearing face coverings - in Leeds city centre on Saturday (Sept 26) after residents woke up to new restrictions.

New rules came into force in Leeds at midnight on Friday meaning that it is now illegal for one household to visit another in their own houses. Any breach of this rule will come with a fine.

The measures come as Leeds is seeing its highest infection rate since national lockdown restrictions were eased during the summer.

There are no restrictions on shopping in Leeds city centre.

Leeds City Council leader Coun Judith Blake said on Friday: “How long these new measures last and how much further they may need go in the coming weeks and months will depend on everyone playing their part."

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “The latest data shows a sharp increase in incidence rates per 100,000 population in Leeds, Blackpool, Wigan and Stockport, which are significantly above the national average."

Mr Hancock added: “People who live in these areas will not be allowed to gather in a private dwelling or garden with any other household unless in a support bubble.

“People from anywhere else will also not be allowed to gather with another household in a private dwelling or garden in these areas."

Leeds City Council said households should not be meeting outdoors either, although this is simply advice and not enforceable by law.