Local leaders react to Devon's Tier 3 announcement

Devon's move into Tier 3 restrictions has left local leaders disappointed, but they felt it was inevitable.

The government reviewed the tier restrictions yesterday (Wednesday) and Devon has now moved up to Tier 3.

The rules mean that you must not meet indoors or in a private garden with anybody outside your own household or support bubble.

Hospitality settings, such as bars, pubs, cafes, restaurants and social clubs, must close except for takeaway, delivery and click and collect services.

Hotels, B&Bs, campsites, holiday lets and guest houses, must also close, except for those travelling for work, while most tourist venues and entertainment must close, but some outdoor venues are permitted to remain open.

Steve Brown, director of Public Health Devon (Designate) said: "Cases in Devon, while we have been in Tier 2, have been rising in all age groups, as per the national trend. Without further intervention with tighter restrictions, we are likely to have seen cases continuing to rise and therefore I feel this announcement was inevitable.

"The decision has been made to place us into Tier 3 and what is important now is we do everything we can to adhere to these tighter restrictions to help bring down cases in Devon

"We will have heard the welcome news today that a second vaccine has been approved for use from early January, but we cannot sit back and relax on the strength of that.

"Please keep up the effort, and remember the key messages, to social distance, wear your face coverings when in a public space where social distancing is not possible, and wash your hands properly and regularly."

Simon Jupp, MP for East Devon, said: "Case numbers continue to rise across the county and our NHS remains under strain. There is hope and optimism following independent approval of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine which will be rolled-out from next week. This is very welcome news, but we can't let our guard down."

Cllr Paul Arnott, leader of East Devon District Council, said: "The threat from the new and more transmittable strain of the virus is extremely serious and the people of East Devon must do all they can to protect the health of both themselves and others.

"I wish everyone a happy new year and urge you to celebrate safely from your own home and respect at all times the increased safety obligations of Tier 3."