COVID-19 update: Colchester to move into Tier 2

Colchester moves into Tier 2 COVID-19 restrictions from 2 December.

The Government has today announced that the majority of the country, including Essex, is to be placed under new Tier 2 restrictions when the current lockdown lifts on Wednesday 2 December.  

The key new restrictions that we face, being in Tier 2 ‘High Alert’ are:

• No socialising with anyone outside your household or support bubble in any indoor setting
• Rule of 6 applies outdoors
• Businesses including shops can open, in a COVID-Secure manner, other than those which remain closed by law, such as nightclubs 
• Pubs and bars must close unless operating as restaurants, with venues only able to sell alcohol with substantial meals
• Hospitality venues that remain open have to close at 11pm and call last orders at 10pm

For a complete list of all Tier 2 restrictions, please visit www.gov.uk, where you can also view what restrictions and exemptions from gatherings apply in all tiers. 

There is separate guidance for households with a possible or confirmed coronavirus infection. There is also separate guidance for support and childcare bubbles, which apply across all tiers. 

The Government has said that they plan on reviewing the tiers on a fortnightly basis.

Christmas Restrictions 

Information about Christmas restrictions, which will apply between 23 and 27 December, are also available on the GOV.UK website. 

We urge everyone in Colchester to remain vigilant and follow the key advice from the Government:

• Regularly wash your hands
• Cover your face when in public indoor spaces or where in close proximity to others
• Maintain a social distance of 2 metres, where possible
• Isolate if asked to
• Get tested if you have any of the common symptoms: a high fever, new or continuous dry cough, loss of taste or smell

Support for residents

You can find advice and support on accessing food, information on key community contacts and mental health support services in the Support for Communities section of our website. You can also view our Community Response Pack.

For local advice and support or to volunteer during the pandemic (especially if you are self-isolating), contact Community 360 by email information@community360.org.uk or call 012016 505250. 

Support for businesses

We encourage businesses to visit our Business Support section on our website for advice and to apply for Business Grant Support.

Colchester Borough Council Services  Please continue to check our dedicated webpage at colchester.gov.uk/coronavirus/ and our social media channels, to keep informed of the latest news on the council’s work to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and any changes to our services. 

Stay Alert | Control the Virus | Save Lives