‘Devastating blow to businesses’: Derbyshire council leaders react as county enters Tier 4

Council leaders have expressed concerns for businesses after the whole of Derbyshire was placed under the toughest tier of coronavirus restrictions.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

The county entered Tier 4 on New Year’s Eve.

Under the measures, residents are being told to stay at home unless they have a ‘reasonable excuse’ such as work or education – and firms including non-essential shops, hairdressers and gyms must close their doors.

The Government will review the tier system again in a fortnight.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “This continues to be an incredibly difficult time and I fully recognise the frustration and further uncertainty caused by Wednesday’s announcement.

“It will of course come as another hammer blow to our local businesses, which have already endured a very testing year. I would urge all of you to check here for details of the financial support available to you and to make sure you don’t miss out on funds which could prove to be a lifeline for your businesses.

“My sympathies also to the many people who have already missed out on meeting up with family and friends over the festive period; knowing we have to continue to remain apart from loved ones is upsetting.

Tricia Gilby, Chesterfield Borough Council leader, and Barry Lewis, Derbyshire County Council leader.Tricia Gilby, Chesterfield Borough Council leader, and Barry Lewis, Derbyshire County Council leader.
Tricia Gilby, Chesterfield Borough Council leader, and Barry Lewis, Derbyshire County Council leader.

“But keeping our families safe, and protecting our local NHS services, must remain the top priority.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Despite the valiant efforts of Chesterfield’s communities, infection rates remain too high and we all have a responsibility to follow the rules and help slow the spread of the virus.

“With vaccines being rolled out – and rapid, targeted community testing due to be available in Chesterfield in the new year – there is hope that we will all be able to return to a more normal life soon.

“But for now, we must all continue to play our part, and protect our most vulnerable.”

Coun Barry Lewis, leader of Derbyshire County Council, added: “It is disappointing for huge swathes of Derbyshire that had low rates of Covid-19 that the whole of the county has been placed in Tier 4.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“It is also a devastating blow to businesses that will be affected by these tougher restrictions and the possible impact this will have on jobs in the county, particularly in the hospitality industry, which is why I’ve called for extra Gocernment support.

“I would urge everyone to adhere to these new rules, including during new year celebrations, to continue to wash their hands regularly, keep apart and wear a face covering.

“By showing our Derbyshire spirit, by getting tested when more centres open around the county and by getting the vaccine we will all be able to get back to the things we love more quickly.”

Lee Rowley, Conservative MP for North East Derbyshire, said the county had been placed under Tier 4 due to an ‘increase in rates locally’ and the ‘potential challenge’ of the new variant of the virus.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He added that there was ‘light at the end of the tunnel’ thanks to developments with vaccines.

“In the short-term, we have a real challenge,” he added.

Editor’s message

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription at www.localsubsplus.co.uk or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.