Kingston has today entered Tier 3 of coronavirus restrictions along with all other London boroughs.
The change comes as data published by Public Health England showed that the rate of infection in London was significantly higher than across England as a whole.
“At the end of a difficult year, while many are preparing to celebrate Christmas, the tightening of local restrictions will be disappointing news for us all, but it’s important we each do what we must to slow the spread,” said Caroline Kerr, leader of Kingston council, in a statement published yesterday.
The rules that apply under Tier 3 are as follows.
Meeting people:
- You must not meet indoors with anybody outside of your household or support bubble.
- The rule of six continues to apply for outdoor public spaces like parks, beaches and countryside. You can no longer socialise with people outside of your household or support bubble in a private garden.
Hospitality:
- Pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes must close.
- They can provide takeaway, click-and-collect, drive-through or delivery services.
Accommodation:
- Hotels, B&Bs and guest houses must close, but there are exemptions.
- These restrictions do not apply between December 22 and 28.
Entertainment and Events:
- Indoor entertainment venues like bowling alleys, bingo halls, cinemas and theatres must close.
- Indoor attractions at zoos, aquariums, museums and landmarks must also close.
- Weddings can go ahead with up to 15 people in attendance at the ceremony.
- Funerals can go ahead with up to 30 people in attendance at the ceremony.
Sport and Exercise:
- Leisure and sports facilities may remain open, but group exercise classes should not continue.
- Organised outdoor sport and exercise classes can continue.
- Organised indoor sport and exercise classes cannot take place, but there are exemptions.
- Elite sport events may continue, but without spectators.
Worship:
- Places of worship can remain open, but you must not attend with anyone outside of your household or support bubble.
The full list can be found here.
These Tier 3 restrictions will still be softened temporarily between December 23 and 27 when up to three households may merge for Christmas celebrations.
