One month after it became the first area in the UK to be placed under local lockdown, restrictions have been partially lifted, meaning residents will once again be allowed to dine out in restaurants.
The Department of Health has confirmed that pubs, restaurants, cafes, hairdressers, museums and cinemas are set to re-open from Monday, and religious ceremonies will also be allowed to take place Leisure centres, gyms and pools must remain closed.
Director of public health for Leicester, Ivan Browne, said the infection rate had fallen “substantially” to around 55 per 100,000 people, from the beginning of the local lockdown, when the number was 135. He said health officials are looking to reduce the rate to below 50, with the further aim of 20 or below by September.
“I think from there that would get us in the best position possible for winter that better reflects the national picture – below 10%,” he said.
“That’s what we’re setting as our local target and we’re pushing hard for that.”
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