Leeds Council awaiting confirmation on what tier Leeds will be in after lockdown

Boris Johnson announced that the country would return to the localised, tiered system when lockdown ends on December 2.

Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Johnson said the "tougher" system will replace the previous three-tier local lockdown system.

The new tiered measures will not be negotiated with local leaders.

Instead, decisions will be based on an analysis of cases across all age groups, and specific analysis of cases among over 60s, the rate by which cases are rising or falling, the percentage of those tested in the local population found to have coronavirus, and the current and projected pressures on the NHS.

Confirmation of which areas will be placed into Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 3 of the new system will come on Thursday, November 26.

A Leeds City Council spokesperson said: “We await to hear from government regarding which tier Leeds will be placed in post-lockdown.

"A final decision is expected to be made and announced by government on Thursday.

"In the meantime, we appreciate all the efforts being made by our communities and partners to deal with the pandemic.

"We continue to do all we can to prevent the spread of the virus and are pleased that the actions of people in the city are reducing case numbers and infection rates.”

Under the previous local lockdown, Leeds was in Tier 2 but was preparing to enter Tier 3 - the toughest Tier of restrictions - when the national lockdown 2 began.

Boris Johnson said: “Later this week, I should say we will announce which areas will fall into which tier, I hope on Thursday.”

He added: “I’m sorry to say we expect that more regions will fall at least temporarily into higher levels than before but by using these tougher tiers and by using rapid turnaround tests on an ever greater scale to drive R below one and keep it there, it should be possible for areas to move down the (tier) scale to lower levels of restrictions.”

What was announced by Boris Johnson and what will change in the new three tier system?

Under the new system, bars and restaurants will not be allowed to open to customers in Tier 3 areas.

Pubs, bars and restaurants will be allowed to open as takeaways and for collection and delivery, though.

Hotels will have to close in Leeds and other Tier 3 areas, and 'all forms of hospitality' except for delivery and takeaways.

Outdoor sports and business events will also not be allowed to take place in Leeds, and Leeds United will have to continue playing behind closed doors at Elland Road.

Outlining the tiers, Boris Johnson said: “In particular, in Tier 1 people should work from home wherever possible.

“In Tier 2, alcohol may only be served in hospitality settings as part of a substantial meal.

“In Tier 3, indoor entertainment, hotels and other accommodation will have to close, along with all forms of hospitality except for delivery and takeaways.”

Mr Johnson added that he is “very sorry” for the “hardship” that such restrictions will cause business owners.

“So from the 10pm closing time… we’re going to change so that it is last orders at 10 with closing at 11.

“In tiers 1 and 2 spectator sports and business events will be free to resume inside and outside with capacity limits and social distancing, providing more consistency with indoor performances in theatres and concert halls.

“We’ll also strengthen the enforcement ability of local authorities, including specially trained officers and new powers to close down premises that pose a risk to public health.”

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