Swindon Borough to move into Tier 3 restrictions

The Government have announced today that Swindon Borough is to move into the Tier 3 ‘Very High’ alert level with the new tougher restrictions coming into force from 00:01 on Boxing Day, Saturday 26 December 2020.

This follows a sharp rise is cases across the borough with the case rate jumping from 107.6 per 100,000 on 12 December to 191.7 per 100,000 on 23 December. Cases are spread largely evenly across the borough suggesting transmission is taking place across all communities.

Residents are urged to follow the new rules and guidance coming into place to reduce case rates across the borough and in turn protect local health services, including the local hospital, from becoming overwhelmed during the holiday period.

The Tier 3 guidance brings in new restrictions including new rules around how people can socialise outdoors, the closure of indoor venues and hospitality, large events no longer being permitted and workers encouraged to work from home where at all possible.

Residents are encouraged to check the Government website and the Council’s website and social media for full details on what is permitted under Tier 3.

Councillor David Renard, Leader of the Council, said: “The Government has reviewed the latest evidence and taken this action to move Swindon up to Tier 3 from Boxing Day. This is a serious situation which rests in our hands as a community to change. We must all respect the new restrictions and follow the guidance.

“We know our health and wellbeing, economy and jobs are all affected by tougher restrictions. That’s why we must work together as a community to do everything we can to get the virus under control and reverse the sharp spike we have seen recently so that these restrictions are no longer required.”

“We will continue to support our local communities through this period and I would encourage residents and businesses to visit our website to find out what support is available.”

Steve Maddern, Director of Public Health for Swindon, said: “We are seeing cases rise across the country and over the past seven days in Swindon we have seen our case rate jump dramatically, with 426 new cases.

“Swindon’s move into Tier 3 from Boxing Day is a clear message that we must act to reduce the extra burden we’re placing on our local health services. Everyone needs to play their part and follow the rules which are there for our own protection and safety.

“Around one in three people with COVID-19 show no symptoms, so we should all act as if we have the virus. There are no shortcuts to protecting yourself and others. Apply ‘Hands. Face. Space.’ in each and every situation.

“Our COVID-19 test sites will be available throughout Christmas and any residents who are experiencing symptoms should book a test as soon as possible.”