Federation of Small Businesses says tier three restrictions will hurt Derbyshire hospitality sector

A representative for Derbyshire’s community of small businesses has warned of a “sharp sting” to the hospitality sector after the county was placed in tier three of the new coronavirus restrictions.
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On Thursday, November 26, health minister Matt Hancock announced that most of the East Midlands and South Yorkshire will be subject to the toughest public health measures from December 2 until December 16 at the earliest.

That means pubs, cafés and restaurants must remain closed except for takeaways and delivery services.

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Michael Weedon, regional policy representative for the Federation of Small Businesses, said: “We were expecting this, but for the whole of Derbyshire to face the highest restrictions – in the run up to Christmas – is frankly devastating.

Derbyshire pubs will remain closed until at least December 16. (Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto)Derbyshire pubs will remain closed until at least December 16. (Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Derbyshire pubs will remain closed until at least December 16. (Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

“Hospitality businesses will really feel the sharp sting of this decision at a time when they would ordinarily be at their busiest.”

He added: “Business owners have gone above and beyond throughout the pandemic to protect customers, spending huge sums of money to make their venues Covid-secure, only to now face this heart-breaking news.

“We can only hope that the review in two weeks will allow for a move down the tiers so these businesses can reopen.

“We are of course pleased that shops, gyms and personal care businesses can resume trade from Wednesday. I ask everyone to do all they can to support these amazing firms this month.”