Coronavirus: New tier 1, 2 and 3 rules after England lockdown

26 November 2020, 10:57 | Updated: 7 June 2023, 08:56

Boris Johnson has outlined new tiers and rules after lockdown but what are they? What does this mean for pubs and shops? New post-lockdown restrictions explained.

Boris Johnson set out his new set of rules in a speech to Parliament today, and is expected to address the nation later this evening.

Putting the country back under the alert system of tier 1, 2 and 3, the Prime Minister confirmed stricter rules in order to continue to beat the spread of Covid-19.

He also said more regions and areas will be placed into higher alert tiers as we prepare to relax the rules to allow for Christmas celebrations and gatherings.

Covid lockdown postcode checker: Check your area's coronavirus alert level and tier restrictions

So what are the new lockdown tier rules? And what are the tier 1, 2 and 3 lockdown restrictions we need to follow? Johnson is yet to confirm details but here’s what’s expected to happen:

What are the tier 1, medium alert, Covid lockdown rules?

As of December 2, when lockdown ends, it’s reported the rules will be very similar to before.

All businesses and venues that can open, are allowed to operate as usual, pubs and restaurants will follow a 10pm curfew and schools, unis and places of worship can remain open.

Weddings and funerals, following current Covid guidelines, can go ahead as planned, gyms can reopen and the rule of six will apply both indoors and outdoors.

Read more: Outdoor sports stadiums allowed 4,000 spectators when lockdown ends

What are the tier 2, high alert, rules and restrictions?

The rules are similar to tier 1 in regards to schools, restaurants and pubs. However, socialising becomes a little more difficult.

Social bubbles and households must not mix indoors but the rule of 6 can still apply outside. Gyms and shops are expected to open too.

What are the tier 3, very high alert, rules and restrictions?

These are the toughest of restrictions set in place in England and will mean pubs and bars must remain shut unless a main meal is served, wedding receptions banned and no mixing of households or bubbles.

The rule of six outside applies and it will be determined by local authorities whether gyms, leisure centres and certain other businesses can reopen.

Unnecessary travel and overnight stays are also strongly advised against.