'There is no room for complacency': CBC leader issues warning as Luton enters Tier-2 restrictions

Due to rising cases of Covid-19 across the town, Luton will move into the government’s "high-alert level" at 12.01am on Saturday, October 31.

Once in Tier-2, Luton residents will no longer be able to meet friends and family indoors in any setting (including private homes, pubs and restaurants) unless they live with them or have formed a support bubble with them.

Cllr James Jamieson, leader of Central Beds Council said: "There will be a many people living in Central Bedfordshire who will have friends or family in Luton, or that travel to Luton for work or study.

"If you do have friends and family in Luton, you can still visit them but only outside and not in groups larger than six.

"People can still travel to and from Luton, but Luton residents are being encouraged to limit the number of journeys and, where possible to cycle or walk.

"If using public transport people are asked to try to avoid busy times. If you need to travel into/ from Luton, we would also encourage you to follow this advice.

"Clearly this is a worrying time and the increasing levels of infection locally is a stark reminder that we all need to make every effort possible to control the spread of the virus.

"Whilst infection levels in Central Bedfordshire are not at the same level as Luton’s there is absolutely no room for complacency. Each and every one of us can make a difference by taking personal responsibility to follow the core advice."

Residents are advised to:

> Wash hands regularly;

> Wear a face covering;

> Socially distance from anyone they don’t live with or not in their support bubble.

Cllr Jamieson added: "We know these measures are effective. They worked before and can work again.

"We need to pull together to control the virus, keep each other safe and avoid further restrictions."