Coronavirus: Northern lockdown to remain in place as cases fail to fall, government announces

The northern lockdown, which has seen more than four million people across the region ordered not to mix with other households, is to remain in place following a government review.

The coronavirus restrictions – first announced two weeks ago – will stay in force across Greater Manchester, areas of East Lancashire and large chunks of West Yorkshire, as well as the city of Leicester in the East Midlands.

The government announcement came as it was revealed the number of total Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people in the area had not decreased.

Casinos, skating rinks, bowling alleys, exhibition halls, conference centres and indoor play areas, which are all allowed to open in the rest of the country on Saturday, will have to stay shut in the affected areas.

The restrictions will be reviewed again next week, it was said.

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