Neighbouring communities advised not to flout travel guidelines and abuse Peterborough’s Tier 2 freedoms

Lincolnshire, along with most of the Midlands has received the news that it will shift from Tier 1 to Tier 3 from December 2.

That means residents in the adjoining districts of South Holland and South Kesteven might see Peterborough as an outlet to escape the new, severe curbs on social and working life. This could have a knock on effect on the city’s hard work of driving down infection rates in recent months and put more pressure on its hospitals.

Director of Public health for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Dr Liz Robin warned people to take note of the latest government guidance on travel.

According to the government, residents of Tier 3 can continue to travel to venues or amenities which are open, but should aim to reduce the number of journeys they make where possible.

It adds: “Avoid travelling to other parts of the UK, including for overnight stays other than where necessary, such as for work, education, youth services, to receive medical treatment, or because of caring responsibilities. You can travel through other areas as part of a longer journey.”

Everyone who can work from home should continue to do so.

This suggests that although people from areas such as Spalding, Bourne, Stamford and Market Deeping may visit the city for medical treatment or commuting to work; socialising in bars and restaurants (which are closed except for takeaways in Tier 3) may be frowned upon. In Peterborough under Tier 2 rules, restaurants and pubs must only open when serving alcohol with a substantial meal.

Dr Robin said: “It is a national health service and we know that the whole NHS is under pressure at the moment.

“We are not in the position of hospitals in the north west or north east as we have managed to keep our rates lower, luckily.

“That is why it is important that we have these Tier 2 restrictions.”