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Could York go into Tier 1 this week? These key figures give city hope

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Shoppers in Coney Street, York, earlier this month. Photograph: YorkMix

York’s latest coronavirus figures will give city leaders hope that the city might escape the restrictions of Tier 2 this week.

Like so much of the country, York was placed in to Tier 2 after the national lockdown ended on 2 December.

Then, ministers said they would review the allocations on 16 December – tomorrow.

So how has the city fared since coming out of lockdown?

Here are some of the key figures:

  • coronavirus cases have dropped to 57.9 per 100,000 – well below the Tier 2 and 3 averages
  • New cases are down by 15.9 per cent
  • Over 60s cases are down by 6.5 per cent
  • Hospital admissions are down by 1.1 per cent
  • The positivity rate is down by 2.5 per cent
Source: PHE / NHS Test and Trace

However, if ministers choose to take a regional rather than a local approach, York may be stuck with the Tier 2 restrictions.

Scarborough’s rates are still higher at 158.2 cases per 100,000, while Selby is at 112.6 cases.

Tier 1 and 2: The rules

Tier two (high) rules

  • You can’t mix indoors with anyone apart from members of your household or bubble
  • You can meet in a group of up to six outside – including in a private garden, or a public place
  • Shops, gyms and personal care services (such as hairdressing) can reopen
  • Pubs and bars can only open if they serve substantial meals. Alcohol can be served with that meal
  • Pubs and restaurants must shut at 23:00 GMT, with last orders at 22:00
  • Sports events in stadiums can be attended by up to 2,000 spectators, or 50% capacity (whichever is smaller)
  • Collective worship, weddings and outdoor sports can resume (with restrictions)

Tier one (medium) rules

  • You can see people from different households both indoors and outdoors, but only in groups of up to 6 people. 
  • Restaurants, pubs, cafés and other hospitality venues can be open. However, they must close by 11pm, with last orders at 10pm and provide table service.