Last week a police chief warned about people not following social distancing norms in light of coronavirus after illegal gatherings in the West Midlands.
Coronavirus cases are rising in the city, with 30.2 cases per 100,000 and the percentage of people testing positive up to 4.3%. More than half of cases in the last week have been within the 18-34 age demographic. This has resulted in local authorities considering a second local lockdown in Birmingham.
Police have already broken up 70 such gatherings over the weekend, just hours after new voluntary restrictions were introduced to prevent a local lockdown in the UK’s second biggest city. Birmingham was already placed on the government’s “watch list” as cases rose, prompting the council to suggest a series of voluntary measures that include limiting public gatherings to 30 people except for communal prayer and asking drivers and passengers in taxis to wear face coverings. The police already allowed to fine upto £10,000 for organisers of unlawful raves from Friday. Across the UK there has been a rise in the unlicensed music events and the fine comes into force ahead of the August bank holiday weekend, when senior officers expect many illegal gatherings to take place.
Stricter new measures designed to stop the spread of coronavirus in the North West have been branded "confusing". Residents in Oldham and parts of Blackburn and Pendle have been told not to socialise with other households. Local council leaders said it was "unclear" how the rule would be implemented and policed and urged the government to issue detailed guidance. Workplaces, childcare facilities and businesses, including pubs and restaurants, will remain open.
Under the new rules, introduced on Saturday, residents are advised to only use public transport for essential travel. Restaurants are advised to only cater for pre-booked customers, with a maximum of six people per table. Residents can also attend the weddings, civil partnerships and funerals of members of their household and close family, with ceremonies limited to 20 people.
Extra restrictions will remain in Greater Manchester and East Lancashire plus Preston where gatherings of separate households are banned in most circumstances.
Dr Sakthi Karunanithi, public health director at Lancashire County Council, said: "The vast majority - more than 80% - of coronavirus transmission (in the affected parts of Pendle and Blackburn) is as a result of households mixing.
"That's why we are putting out a very clear message - do not socialise with people you don't live with."
In the meantime, other areas like Southall and Slough have also been placed on the government’s list.
