Prime Minister announces new local Covid Alert Levels

Addressing MPs before hosting a Downing Street press conference, he confirmed the levels will be set at medium, high, and very high.

Hartlepool – like the rest of the Tees Valley and the North East – falls into the “high” category.

The “high” alert level restrictions include:

• People must not meet with anybody outside their household or support bubble in any indoor setting, whether at home or in a public place
• People must not meet in a group of more than 6 outside, including in a garden or other space.
• People should aim to reduce the number of journeys they make where possible. If they need to travel, they should walk or cycle where possible, or to plan ahead and avoid busy times and routes on public transport

The Prime Minister has said that retail, schools and universities will remain open in all levels.

The new restrictions will come into place on Wednesday 14 October.

To read the latest from the government in relation to this update, please click here.

A postcode checker on gov.uk will show which alert level applies in each area and the NHS Covid-19 app will also direct people to this information.

Councillor Shane Moore, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “Today, the Prime Minister has announced new Covid Alert Levels which now cover the whole of the Tees Valley and the wider North East.

“As always, it’s essential each and every one of us follows the rules in the hope we can get the virus under control so that Hartlepool can return to normal as soon as possible.

“If we don’t follow the rules, we could face tougher restrictions and I’m sure no one in Hartlepool wants us to face a situation where our pubs and bars have to close again.”

Councillor Moore continued: “Please follow the Government’s rules to help stop the spread of the virus. Above all, you’ll be protecting yourself and the most vulnerable in our community, like grandma and grandad.

“It’s also vital for people to please keep up their basic safety precautions – wash your hands frequently, wear a face covering and keep your distance – HANDS, FACE, SPACE.

“Small steps save lives.”