Tier four extension forces non-essential retail to close in much of England

Birmingham, Greater Manchester and Nottingham are among the big retail centres where the rules have now come into force. The restrictions affect three-quarters of England’s population. London and much of East and South East England was already in tier four

Almost all areas of England not in tier four were moved up to tier three, where shops can remain open but where there are restrictions on meeting socially indoors and on hospitality businesses. The Liverpool city region and York are among important retail locations that now in tier three.

Health secretary Matt Hancock said the latest measures were “a significant burden on people [but] absolutely necessary” to combat Covid-19, particularly following the emergence of a faster-spreading variant strain.

Ireland also entered a nationwide lockdown at midnight on Wednesday which prime minister Michael Martin said would last for at least a month, with tier five restrictions mandating that all non-essential retail close alongside gyms.

CBI chief UK policy director Matthew Fell said: “Tightening restrictions across many areas provides a torrid end to an already tough year for many businesses.

“There is now a growing need to reevaluate government support in January to ensure firms can survive through to the spring and beyond.

“While the vaccine rollout and efforts to increase mass rapid testing offer hope going into 2021, it is clear challenges will continue well into next year. Steadfast support should continue to help struggling firms and lay the foundations for economic recovery.” 

Tightening of coronavirus restrictions has already hit retail footfall. Shopper traffic monitor Springboard reported that on Boxing Day, traditionally when many Sales start, footfall was down 60% year on year.

Tougher rules have also been introduced in Scotland and Wales in recent days.