Some parts of the local lockdown in Leicester are to be lifted, the Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said.
Speaking in the House of Commons on Thursday evening, the Health Secretary said that the area affected by the lockdown is to change, with it announced that restrictions will be relaxed across the county except in the Oadby and Wigston area and the city of Leicester itself.
Mr Hancock said the decision had been made following advice from the leader of Leicestershire County Council, Nicholas Rushton, which was based on data and public health advice.
From July 24, restrictions on schools and childcare providers in the lockdown area will be relaxed and there is to be a different approach to non-essential retail. Most schools are, however, closing for the summer holidays in the next week. Mr Hancokc said there would be a “local power” to close non-essential retail where necessary.
Some rules and guidelines will remain in place for the area affected by the lockdown. Members of the public are still advised not to travel from, to or within the lockdown area except for essential reasons.
The easing of restrictions on hospitality outlets that happened in most of England on 4 July will still not be able to take place yet in the area affected by the local lockdown.
Speaking to MPs in the House of Commons, Mr Hancock said;
“Some say the local lockdown is unnecessary – I wish this were true.
“It is vital for the city and the rest of the country that the restrictions remain in place.
“We will review them again in a fortnight.
“I hope this careful easing provides some comfort to the people of Leicester and Leicestershire.”
Local lockdown measures were first announced for Leicester on 29 June, following a continued rise in Coronavirus cases in the city and surrounding areas.
