- Incidence rates over 100 per 100,000 in 6 of the 7 areas last week
- Package of financial support being agreed to tackle rising infection rates in these areas and support the latest measures
In close discussions with local leaders, the Health and Social Care Secretary, NHS Test and Trace, the Joint Biosecurity Centre (JBC), Public Health England (PHE) and the Chief Medical Officer for England have agreed to strengthen local measures in parts of the North East.
Current guidance in several areas of the North East advises residents not to mix with people outside their household or bubble in indoor settings, including pubs and restaurants.
In response to high and increasing infection rates, this guidance will now be enforceable by law and subject to fines from 00:01 Wednesday 30 September. The rules will apply to 7 areas:
- Durham
- Gateshead
- Newcastle
- North Tyneside
- South Tyneside
- Northumberland
- Sunderland
COVID-secure schools and workplaces are not affected by this update.
Alongside this, a funding package is being agreed with councils to support the measures and tackle the rising infection rate, with
