New Lockdown Rules Hit Wigan, Stockport, Blackpool and Leeds as COVID Cases Surge
The government has slammed the brakes on socialising in parts of the North West and Yorkshire amid a sharp rise in COVID-19 infections. From midnight Saturday, residents in Wigan, Stockport, Blackpool and Leeds will face strict new rules banning household mixing—even in gardens. London has also joined the watchlist as an “area of concern,” while Teesside cities get beefed up support.
Household Mixing Banned in Hotspot Towns
Health chiefs have moved quickly to stamp out the virus in key areas. From 26 September, no one in Wigan, Stockport, Blackpool, or Leeds can meet people from outside their household or support bubble in private homes or gardens. This isn’t just a suggestion—it’s the law.
The advice extends to all venues too, with locals urged to avoid mixing in pubs, shops or leisure spots, indoors or out. However, childcare bubbles can still operate so families can share caring duties consistently.
Covid Hotspots and Support Areas
- Areas of Intervention (new rules): Wigan, Stockport, Blackpool, Leeds
- Areas of Concern (monitoring): London
- Enhanced Support Areas: Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Stockton-on-Tees, Darlington, Redcar & Cleveland (Teesside)
Government Urges Caution as Cases Climb
“We continue to see an acceleration of COVID-19 cases across the country, especially in the North West and the North East,” said Health Secretary Matt Hancock.
“We are prepared to take swift and decisive action to reduce transmission of the virus and protect communities. I urge everyone to isolate and get tested if you have symptoms, follow NHS Test and Trace advice, and remember ‘hands, face, space.’”
Regional Changes: What You Need to Know
- North West: Wigan and Stockport join Greater Manchester’s restrictions, Blackpool added to intervention list, Bolton restrictions stay tight.
- West Yorkshire: Leeds follows Calderdale, Kirklees and Bradford with household mixing bans.
- North East: Several areas remain under intervention; Teesside towns ramp up to enhanced support amid rising cases.
- West Midlands: Birmingham, Solihull, Sandwell and Wolverhampton keep restrictions; Stoke-on-Trent removed.
- East Midlands: Leicester and Oadby and Wigston stay on intervention; Corby and Northampton removed.
- London: Added as area of concern amid rising hospital admissions.
Public Health England, the Joint Biosecurity Centre and NHS Test and Trace continue to monitor data constantly. Officials warn that measures could change fast to keep the virus under control.
