Leeds In Lockdown? Not Yet

Leeds has become an "area of concern" according to Public Health England after the latest seven-day infection rate in the city rose to 32.5 cases per 100,000 people.

Leeds' City Council were more circumspect and said being on the list did not mean more restrictions would be brought in immediately. It does mean an increase in monitoring of cases and, in all likelihood, additional steps if the infection rate does not start to fall.

Civic leaders and public health officials in Leeds had already called for a city-wide effort to prevent further spread of COVID-19, but the virus has continued to spread rising rapidly from 29 cases per 100,000 people just a few days ago.

Council leader Judith Blake said: "We have been working tirelessly with our partners and communities, doing everything within our power to keep the spread of this virus under control and to ensure Leeds stays open.

"We completely understand that these past six months have put a tremendous strain on everyone in Leeds and that being able to get out, socialise and enjoy ourselves has provided a massive lift.

"But it is absolutely crucial that if we want to continue to do that, we all do it sensibly and responsibly and follow the latest guidance which is there to keep us all safe," she added.