Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the new measures last night (Monday, January 4), saying they were needed to curb the rapid spread of Covid-19 and bring the new more transmissible variant under control.
Under Tier 3 measures, shops deemed ‘non-essential’ were allowed to remain open in Sheffield but have been forced to close under the latest rules.
While the city centre was quieter today, it certainly wasn’t empty- with plenty of shoppers pictured picking up essential items such as groceries and medicine as well as people heading out for their daily exercise.
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1. 'STAY AT HOME'
Shopping for 'essential' items is one of the 'reasonable excuses' open to Sheffielders when leaving their homes. The government has reinforced the 'stay at home' message we saw back in March after Covid-19 rates spiralled out of control. Photo: Brian Eyre
2. DOWN SHUTTERS
Under the previous Tier 3 restrictions, shops deemed non-essential were allowed to remain open in the city but have now been forced to close under the national lockdown. Photo: Brian Eyre
3. ESSENTIAL JOURNEYS
Public transport is still running for residents needing to make essential journeys, such as the commute to work. As ever masks must be worn on buses, trams and all other public transport. Photo: Brian Eyre
4. GHOST TOWN
Despite the fact the city centre isn't as quiet as we saw in the first lockdown, it's still eerie to see most shops closed during what should be a bustling weekday. Photo: Brian Eyre