Caldertdale Council leader reacts to to local lockdown household restrictions continuing in Halifax

Following discussions with local leaders, the Health Secretary, NHS Test and Trace, the Joint Biosecurity Centre (JBC), and the Chief Medical Officer for England have agreed this week’s changes in Calderdale.

Every pool, gym and sports facility will now be able to open across the country.

Casinos, skating rinks, bowling alleys, exhibition halls, conference centres, and indoor play areas (including soft play areas) will be able to lawfully reopen from Tuesday September 8

In response to today’s Government announcement about local COVID-19 restrictions, the Leader of Calderdale Council, Councillor Tim Swift, said: “We are disappointed that the local restrictions on indoor household gatherings remain in place in Halifax.

"We know how hard this continues to be for local people. Calderdale has been making sustained progress over recent weeks. Thanks to the borough’s collective efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19, we’re seeing a steady reduction in our infection rates, and we are incredibly grateful for the part that everyone is playing to protect each other.

“Due to the encouraging local figures and based on professional public health advice, all of our local political leaders reached an agreement and recommended to Government that the local restrictions be removed throughout Calderdale. The Government is keen for local leaders to drive local decisions, and it is disappointing that our recommendations have not been supported.

“However, it is positive news that some local businesses can reopen from Tuesday 8 September.

“Nevertheless, it’s important that we don’t become complacent. Only by continuing to follow the guidance can we keep infection rates down. We’re seeing really hopeful signs that everyone’s hard work and sacrifices are paying off, and we must all keep this up. None of us should be ashamed or blamed if we get the virus – it’s no one’s fault – but we all have the power to stop it spreading. Everyone in the borough must follow the national guidance, and all Halifax constituency residents must also stick to the local restrictions to look after themselves and others.

“We will continue to do all we can to reduce the number of cases, and we are keeping up our calls to Government to lift the remaining local restrictions as soon as possible. Next week we hope that the Government will consider releasing the Halifax constituency from the additional measures in place.”