Halifax local lockdown restrictions remain for residents but leisure venues can re-open

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

Socially distanced indoor performances will also be able to resume, and remaining restrictions on certain close contact services (treatments on the face, such as eyebrow threading or make-up application) will be lifted.

These easements will bring Calderdale in line with the changes made in the rest of the country on August 15. T

The rate of infection is still too high in Greater Manchester, parts of Lancashire and West Yorkshire, including Halifax, to allow lifting restrictions on gatherings.

Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock said: “I’m very glad we’ve been able to make this change, working with local councils, because local lockdowns are working to control the virus. We are seeing improvements in the rates of infection thanks to the huge efforts made by local communities and authorities working alongside our effective Test and Trace system.

“We must stay alert and I continue to encourage everyone to play their part by following local rules, self-isolating and requesting a free test as soon as they get any symptoms.”