Yesterday, the government announced that Elmbridge will move into the “high” COVID alert level on Saturday (from 00:01). This is part of a new system of local alert levels, which ensures that we have the right intervention in the right places to effectively manage Coronavirus outbreaks. Every local area is categorised as either Medium Risk, High Risk or Very High Risk.
This decision was taken in response to rising Coronavirus cases in Elmbridge. Being in the “high” alert level introduces new restrictions in our borough, which are important to help get the virus back under control.
This means that, from Saturday, you must not socialise with anybody outside of your household or support bubble in any indoor setting, whether at home or in a public place. You must not socialise in a group of more than six outside, including private gardens and parks.
This is in addition to the national restrictions already in place on wearing face coverings, social distancing and working from home where possible. The full guidance on what you can and can’t do under the “high” alert level is available here.
I appreciate that moving up a tier to high alert level will be disappointing for Elmbridge residents, but these additional restrictions are necessary to help curb the spread of the virus.
Local residents have shown great resolve over recent months. We have got to follow these new rules to avoid more stringent restrictions later on. That’s how we will come through this pandemic, protect lives and mitigate the harm to businesses and jobs.
