Only essential travel across the Welsh border can continue during England’s new COVID-19 lockdown

Residents in Flintshire, Wrexham and Cheshire West who live on, or work over, the border should only cross it for essential purposes.

Wales’ two week ‘firebreak’ lockdown ends on 9 November and England’s national lockdown began on 5 November.

This means that, during November, different national restrictions will continue to affect residents living on both sides of the border, affecting travel between England and Wales.

Travel over the border is only permitted for essential purposes including education, work, care and essential retail.

Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council Louise Gittins said: “COVID-19 does not recognise borders, and we all share the common goal of preventing the spread of the virus to protect lives and livelihoods.

“Many people live on the border or cross over it as part of their daily activities. From 5 November, people who live in Cheshire and North Wales can commute across the border for work, if they cannot work from home, and travel for essential reasons including for education and health. Residents should not cross the border to visit hospitality venues, and for reasons other than those stipulated in the regulations.

“The measures being introduced are designed to limit transmission of the virus as much as possible. We encourage all our residents to consider their actions and to follow the guidelines.”

Full details about the restrictions that apply to areas in England are available at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/new-national-restrictions-from-5-november

For answers to questions about the new lockdown in Wales: https://gov.wales/coronavirus-circuit-break-frequently-asked-questions

Protect lives and livelihoods and reduce the spread by washing your hands, covering your faces, keeping your physical distance from people who aren’t in your household bubble. Call 119 or use the national portal https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test  if you have symptoms to get tested.

Pictured - Councillor Louise Gittins