Coun Richard Wright echoed the Prime Minister and health experts’ comments that the relaxation of restrictions for households meeting indoors over Christmas was a “maximum, not a target”. He said: “With transmission of the virus sadly not abating and incidence of Covid not showing any marked decline, I hope that people will understand the need for North Kesteven and the whole of Lincolnshire to remain in Tier 3 ‘Very High Alert’ going forward into the New Year. “The Government is under significant pressure in trying to balance the effective control of the virus with the ability for the economy and functions of life to continue as effectively and safely as possible. It is for this reason that we have the tiering system in place, and in recognition of the ongoing reality within Lincolnshire, I encourage everyone to comply fully with the current restrictions and to exercise care and caution to keep themselves and others around them protected. “Of course I understand the desire of residents and business owners to have moved to the slightly more relaxed Tier 2, but the statistics speak for themselves. Latest figures show that across Lincolnshire case numbers are still significantly higher than the national average – 260 per 100,000 population here compared to 194 for England overall.” Turning to the ongoing effects on the economy, he commented: “Whilst conscious of the need to support businesses, which the council commits significant energies and resources into, I am minded too that premature opening of hospitality before the virus is more under control isn’t necessarily the best way to effect that. It could just lead to even more damaging returns to full lockdowns. “We need a clear path to recovery; not stop, starting every few weeks. Grants are available for affected businesses and we encourage application.” Grants for pubs which have had to close under the Tier 3 restrictions have now been made available and you should contact NKDC about these. “I also echo the caution expressed by the Prime Minister and the scientists this week in respect to Christmas. While it is important that we are able to step back and enjoy a break, it is equally important that we remain careful and cautious and to remember that just because we can meet up with up to three households, it doesn’t mean that we should,” Coun Wright added. “The three households are a maximum, not a target, and a smaller, shorter Christmas will undoubtedly be a safer Christmas for everyone. With that thought, I wish you a safe, healthy and peaceful Christmas and urge your ongoing care and caution into the New Year.” Leader of South Kesteven District Council, Coun Kelham Cooke, said: “I know that for many people this will be disappointing news, not least for those involved in the hospitality industry at what would normally be their busiest time of the year. “We will, of course, continue to provide all the support we can to our residents and businesses at this very challenging time.” The latest available figures show that the rate of positive tests in South Kesteven now stands at 182.6 per 100,000 of population for the seven-day period to December 11, only just below the national average. Coun Cooke said: “It’s clear that we must now continue our efforts to bring this figure down by following Government guidance and continuing to adhere to the restrictions. “Although the Tier 3 restrictions will be relaxed over the Christmas period, from December 23 to 27, we should heed the advice to be cautious and think hard about plans we may have for family gatherings. No-one wants to see another rise in cases after December 27. By following the guidance now, to keep our loved ones safe, I am hopeful that rates will have reduced by the next review in 14 days’ time. Coun Cooke highlighted this week’s positive developments in the fight against Coronavirus in South Kesteven - the opening of a vaccination centre at the Meres Leisure Centre, Grantham, and a drive-through mobile testing station at St Martin’s Park, Stamford. He said: “We should be proud that South Kesteven is playing an important role in the nationwide effort to roll-out vaccinations and increase testing. Being able to get a test quickly is critical to the success of the National Test and Trace Service and residents in both the North and South of the District now have vital facilities close to home.” Leader of Lincolnshire County Council, Coun Martin HIll has expressed his disappointment but understands why Lincolnshire will remain in Tier 3. He said: “We accept and understand the government’s decision to keep Lincolnshire in Tier 3 in line with neighbouring counties who are mostly now in the highest tier, when the Covid virus is showing no signs of easing. But this is hugely disappointing for our economy including the hospitality sector who are struggling to survive.” Coun Hill said: “This is not going to help the shops and businesses who could be benefitting from the festive period when people are spending their money. “It’s disappointing that not all businesses are able to trade and prosper during what is one of our busiest periods in the run up to Christmas, when they could recapture some of the lost revenue due to lockdown and opening restrictions during most of this year. “I will now be working with MPs and district leaders to ensure a suitable compensation scheme is put in place for local businesses. “But we can’t ignore the health of our communities and the pressures on our hospitals. “If our situation continues to improve we’ll be pressing government to look at this again in the new year”