THE NEW three-tier system has come into play – but some of you may still be wondering which tier is relevant to you and what the restrictions are.

Local restrictions for England to curb the spread of coronavirus came into force on Wednesday, October 14.

The Local COVID alert levels are governed by infection rates in a particular area.

READ MORE: Bucks could face tighter coronavirus restrictions after ‘rapid’ rise in cases, leader says

South Buckinghamshire is currently at the medium alert level, or tier one, with an average infection rate of 102.8 per 100,000 people.

For you, that means:

  • Pubs, bars and restaurants close at 10pm, offering table service only
  • The “rule of six” is in play, both in and outdoors (apart from weddings and funerals)
  • Schools and childcare remain open and available
  • You should work from home, if you can
  • Face coverings should be worn on public transport and in taxis, also in shops, restaurants and bars by staff and customers alike

Although South Buckinghamshire has not yet moved up into the more serious high or very high alert levels – tiers two and three – council leader Martin Tett has warned the county could soon face tougher restrictions due to a rise in infections.

READ MORE: What the new three-tier coronavirus restrictions mean for South Bucks

In a Cabinet meeting on October 13, he said the infection rate in Buckinghamshire had risen “significantly” over the past four weeks, that southern districts are witnessing a ‘rapid’ rise in cases, and that tougher measures are possible, impacting people’s livelihoods and lives.

He urged residents to “abide by the rules”, adding: “If we do not do so, if we are complacent, if we continue to have too much mixing, particularly with people from outside our households, there is a real danger the rate here will start to reach the sort of levels we are currently seeing in the Midlands and even the north of England and the Liverpool area.

“I would stress to everybody watching this: the situation here is deteriorating. It is very important we observe the current rules and we do so fastidiously.”

We’ve launched a new Facebook group for local news junkies, politics fans and everyone who wants to keep up to date with the latest issues affecting Buckinghamshire. Please join the conversation over at Buckinghamshire Politics