Steep rise in Covid-19 cases could see Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire in Tier 2 'by end of the week'

Residents in the two districts are being urged to follow the rules after both were classed as ‘medium’ risk, or Tier One, under the Government’s new local Covid alert levels announced on Monday.

However, this position is currently under review by Government – in liaison with the two local authorities, Derbyshire County Council and local MPs – and a decision to potentially class the two areas as ‘high’ risk (or Tier 2) could be taken at the end of the week.

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Coun Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “Everyone across the town and borough has pulled together to help protect the most vulnerable in our communities over the past seven months.

“But in spite of these efforts, the number of local coronavirus cases is now a cause for concern. The infection rate is too high, and we must jointly consider what further measures may be needed at this critical time.

“Nobody wants to see stricter lockdown measures brought in locally but the health and safety of our communities, particularly our most vulnerable, must be our priority.

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“Each and every one of us has a part to play in controlling the spread of this virus – I’m urging everyone in Chesterfield to check their behaviour and make sure they are doing all they can to protect themselves, their families and the communities in which they live and work.”

Coun Alex Dale, leader of North East Derbyshire District Council, said: “There is real concern about this sudden rise in cases and I would urge all of our residents to take extra care where they can and to heed the Government’s hands, face, space message – and to wash their hands regularly.”

Dean Wallace, director of public health for Derbyshire, said: “We all have a duty to do everything it takes to stop the spread of this highly contagious virus.

“I know it’s difficult but I’m asking everyone to summon their famous Derbyshire spirit and play their part to keep themselves, their family, friends and colleagues safe.”

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