Bristol is to move back into Tier 3 on Boxing Day, the government announced today against a backdrop of increasing Covid-19 infection rates across the city.
The number of people contracting the virus in the city has risen sharply since the last review of the local tier restriction system following which Bristol went into Tier on December 19 because of a fall in local cases. 
The city now has an infection rate of 156 new cases per 100,000 people. In the past seven days, from those tested, there were 721 positive results.
The move is another devastating blow to the city’s hospitality, retail and cultural sectors, which have been enjoying some pre-Christmas relief under Tier 2.
Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees acknowledged that people in Bristol will be disappointed to have moved back into Tier 3 despite working hard to reduce numbers.
He said: “In the past few weeks, many of us have continued to make sacrifices to drive down the Covid-19 infection rates. Our efforts were acknowledged by the government which saw the city move down to the Tier 2 – high alert – level of restrictions. I know people will be disappointed we have moved back into Tier 3, but infection rates are increasing in Bristol and we must continue to protect each other.
“This Christmas and New Year will look very different to last year, but if we all continue doing the best we can to follow guidelines and protect one another, we can be hopeful of a return to the things we love next year.”
Mayor Rees also acknowledged the impact the move back to Tier 3 will have on businesses, particularly the hospitality industry, and those who have been to date excluded from the government’s Covid-19 financial support measures.
“I know moving back into Tier 3 will be shattering news for those in the hospitality sector who desperately needed the boost during the festive season, but unfortunately our rising infection rates mean difficult decisions must be taken to protect Bristol.
“We urge government to consider the economic consequences as part of the decision-making process around tiering decisions, and to recognise the total number of businesses within cities like Bristol, something not currently reflected in the government formula that determines the amount of funding each city gets to support its people.”
Tier 3 will come into force on 00:01 on Boxing Day, Saturday December 26. While all essential and non-essential retail can remain open, there are restrictions on socialising and the hospitality sector.
