The businesses that would have to close if Nottinghamshire moves into Tier 3 lockdown

Nottinghamshire has been classed as a ‘high alert’ area for coronavirus, with tighter restrictions set to be imposed on Wednesday, October 14, following the introduction of the governments new "three-tier" system yesterday.

Under Tier 3 – which means the local Covid-19 alert level is 'very high’ – a number of businesses would be forced to close, including gyms and pubs.

However, it is understood that each authority would be able to discuss the specific restrictions - to a limited extent - with central Government.

Here are some of the businesses that would be asked to close if Nottinghamshire moved under Tier 3 restrictions:

Pubs and bars

As with the the first full lockdown in March, boozers would have to close with some allowed to remain open under certain circumstances.

Government guidance states that pubs and bars can only remain open in a Tier 3 areas if they serve substantial meals, like a main lunchtime or evening meal, and must only serve alcohol as part of a meal.

Gyms

Gyms, leisure centres and swimming pools could be forced to shut under Tier 3 restrictions, although the guidance says any closures or additional restrictions will remain subject to more consultation with the local authority.

Provisions for elite athletes, youth and disabled sport and physical activity, however must remain.

In the Liverpool city region, the only area currently classed as Tier 3, leaders have agreed to the closure of gyms, fitness and leisure centres.

Entertainment

Betting shops, casinos, bookmakers, and adult gaming centres, may face restrictions in Tier 3 areas.

The government guidance suggests that public buildings, such as libraries and community centres, could close – but it said councils would be encouraged to ensure provision remains available for youth clubs and childcare activity and support groups.

Both indoor and outdoor entertainment and tourist attractions or venues could also be forced to close, along with performing arts venues ‘for the purposes of performing to audiences’.

These closures would all be decided by the government upon consultation with the local authority.

Again, in the Liverpool city region, local leaders have agreed to the closure of betting shops and casinos.

What can stay open

More places will remain open unlike the first lockdown, including schools and universities.

Supermarkets and restaurants will not be forced to shut, and places of worship will remain open – although mixing with different household groups is not allowed.

Non-essential shops will also be allowed to remain open, although the restrictions on hair and beauty salons remain unclear at this stage.

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