The areas where local lockdown rules will apply have finally been revealed after hours of intense confusion.
A map showing where the restrictions will be in place has been put out this morning - some 12 hours after Matt Hancock confirmed the strict measures to battle the huge coronavirus spike in Leicester.
Update: A postcode checker tool has now been released - CLICK HERE
A map, that featured the Public Health England logo, was being circulated on social media last night but Leicestershire County Council said it was not the official map.
This is the official map which has just been released by the county council. The area inside the red line is the affected area.
LeicestershireLive has made repeated requests for more detail about the areas where the restrictions will apply.
Glenfield, Oadby and Birstall were all said to be included last night but details of the areas affected were otherwise lacking until now. All the ar
The areas of Leicestershire included in the localised lockdown are:
In Blaby District:
• Braunstone Town (including Fosse Park)
• Glenfield
• Glen Parva
• Leicester Forest East (East of the M1)
• Thorpe Astley
In Charnwood:
• Birstall
• Thurmaston
All areas of Oadby and Wigston.
The county council says it is working on a postcode checker for those who live on borders and are unsure.
As a result of a huge spike in cases, non-essential shops have closed, and from Thursday schools will return to teaching the children of key workers only.
Pubs, restaurants, hairdressers and other businesses due to open this weekend won't now be able to.
Last night it was revealed that the lockdown will cover not just the area within the city boundaries but also some areas just outside them.
Nick Rushton, leader of Leicestershire County Council, said: “Protecting residents is our main concern and we’re working closely with Leicester City Council and the Government to bring down the number of cases.
“Clearly coronavirus does not adhere to lines on a map. And although county rates are below the national and regional averages, we can’t be complacent and it makes sense to step up restrictions in areas closer to the city.
Outbreak: the coronavirus spike in the city
“This is the first localised lockdown on this scale and undoubtedly there will be issues to iron out."
"I understand this is disappointing news for residents, parents of schoolchildren and businesses when most of the country is opening back up but it’s crucial that people follow the latest advice.
"Observing social distancing, handwashing, wearing a face mask where required and getting tested if you have symptoms remain vital."
“Our actions play a key role in shaping what happens next and I encourage people to heed the advice and play their part in helping to save lives and livelihoods.”
City mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said: “These measures are stricter than we anticipated but we understand the need for firm action. I am determined that we will make this work and to minimise the time these additional measures need to be in place in the city.
“We will of course continue to play our part in keeping people in the city safe and healthy.”
Speaking on breakfast TV this morning, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: "We are recommending against travel unless it's essential but we are not putting measures in place at this stage.
"We will if we have to but I've seen what people did at the start of lockdown.
"It will be kept under review.
"We are doing this because it is in the best interest of Leicester."
More updates can be found here
