High Peak prepares for very high Covid alert category

Published on 1 December 2020

Communities and businesses across the High Peak will move into the very high alert Covid category when lockdown 2 ends this week.

From Wednesday 2 December, the Borough joins the rest of Derbyshire in Tier 3 where restrictions mean no household mixing indoors, reducing the number of journeys made and avoiding travel out of the area, and, where possible, working from home. Groups of up to a maximum of six can meet in limited outdoor venues such as parks but people are advised to keep social contact with those not in their household or support bubble, to a minimum.

Hospitality, except take-out and delivery services, and indoor entertainment venues will remain closed but non-essential shops, gyms and personal care services such as hairdressing and beauty salons can re-open.  

The decision about which tier to put areas in was made by the Government and it will be reviewed on or around 16 December.

Councillor Anthony Mckeown, Leader of High Peak Borough Council, said: "Tier 3 isn't where we want to be but the virus is still present in our communities so we must remain vigilant to halt the spread by continuing to do what we've been doing for many months now and following the rules.

"We are all now well practised at keeping our distance, washing our hands frequently and wearing a face covering and these simple actions remain our best line of defence along with reducing journeys and minimising social contact. These actions do work and will help continue the reduction in the infection rate across the High Peak.

"We know how hard this is for everyone coming after the second national lockdown but it's as important as ever that we behave responsibly - especially in the weeks leading up to Christmas when families and friends will be allowed to get together in a limited way. I'd like to offer my sincere thanks to residents and businesses for their continuing commitment to keeping everyone safe."

Shops and some businesses that had to close during the lockdown can now re-open and the Council is urging people to show their support by shopping locally.

Councillor Damien Greenhalgh, Deputy Leader and Executive Councillor for Regeneration, Tourism and Leisure, said: "Shops and businesses have felt the impact of the Covid restrictions keenly so being able to re-open, particularly in the run-up to Christmas, will be a welcome boost.

"So many of us have really to come value what we have on our local high streets and in our villages this year and shopping locally, and safely, is the best way to show support for local retailers and services.

"So let's all don our face coverings to buy our seasonal gifts and goodies from our local traders this year and make it a new year's resolution to shop local and give a much-needed boost the local economy."