Lockdown easing is delayed until 19 July

The final stage on the Government's roadmap has been pushed back, amid rising cases.
person holding compass

The delay means that the majority of the current restrictions will continue beyond 21 June, when they had been due to be lifted.

Current limits on seeing friends and family will remain in place, so the rule of six or two households indoors is still permitted, including for overnight stays. Restrictions on meeting outdoors will remain, with gatherings of over 30 people remaining illegal. 

Advice to work from home where possible will remain in place.

The delay will also mean that venues such as nightclubs must remain closed for the time being and most large scale events won't be able to take place until after 19 July. But restrictions on guest numbers to life events are being lifted on 21 June.  

Changes from 21 June

  • There will be no limit to guest numbers for weddings, wakes, and other life events, and instead capacity will be determined by the maximum number of people a venue can accommodate within Covid-19 secure rules.
  • Care home residents will no longer have to isolate for 14 days after returning from visits outside. Exceptions will include high-risk trips such as overnight hospital stays.
  • Overnight trips for out-of-school groups can go ahead for up to 30 children

Cllr Simon Jacobs, Wiltshire Council Cabinet Member for Public Health, said:

“We know this may not be the news people were hoping to receive, but the decision to proceed to the final step of the roadmap was always going to be informed by data rather than dates, and that’s why there is a delay to the change in restrictions.  

“Unfortunately, the variants of coronavirus that have been emerging, particularly the Delta variant (first identified in India), have seen an increase in cases across the country, particularly during the last few weeks. 

“The best way to stop the spread has been to temporarily halt the current plans for Step 4 of the Government’s roadmap.

“We hugely appreciate the efforts of everyone who has been adhering to the restrictions and urge people to continue following the rules so that a way back to a more normal life can continue soon.

“I would urge people get vaccinated when offered and ensure they attend both first and second dose appointments, and stick to the safety measures that will help keep themselves and friends and family safe, by regularly washing hands for at least 20 seconds, social distancing and wearing face coverings where required.”

More information on the roadmap is available on the Government website.

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