The new tier system came into force in England this Wednesday and marked the end of the national lockdown.
Cheltenham has been placed under the tier 2 restrictions.
So, what are the rules for tier 2?
- Non-essential shops can open.
- Hospitality venues will be able to stay open until 11 pm. But, only those which serve substantial meals can operate.
- Indoor entertainment venues, such as cinemas, can open, but they must close at 11 pm.
- Large events, like elite sport, are allowed but limited to a 50% capacity. Social contact limits will also apply.
- As before, social mixing outside support bubbles or households will not be allowed.
- You can see friends and family who you don’t live with (or have a support bubble with) outdoors, in a group of no more than 6.
For more information on the tier 2 restrictions, you can read the full government guidance here.
The first day of tier 2 in the Cheltenham town centre was busy, but not as bustling as many anticipated. There were still queues for certain shops but these subsided quite quickly.
Many shops have extended their opening hours due to the run-up to Christmas. In Cheltenham, shops such as Primark and Marks & Spencer have adjusted their hours to accommodate to the Christmas season.
There are also a lot of deals to be found in Cheltenham’s high street as many businesses are offering plenty of sales.
Tiers will be reviewed by Wednesday December 16.
