Glossop pubs ban Greater Manchester residents as region moves to Tier 3
Pubs in nearby Tier 2 areas are preparing to ban Greater Manchester residents as the region moves into the ‘very high’ risk category today (23 October).
At least eight bars in Glossop have already begun a ‘regulars only’ policy in anticipation of people popping over from Greater Manchester for a pint.
Whilst these venues will not be asking patrons for ID, they will actively discourage people outside the area from visiting.
Glossop is currently in Tier 2 – where pubs and bars can remain open until 10pm.
In Tier 3 areas like Greater Manchester, alcohol can only be served as part of a ‘substantial meal’ – leaving over 1,800 pubs shut until further notice.
The Corner Cupboard pub on Glossop High Street posted on social media urging Greater Manchester residents to avoid the premises whilst the strict rules were intact.
“We have taken the decision to operate as ‘Regulars Only’ venue,” the message reads.
“We are already operating at 20% of our maximum capacity, so want to ensure that our regular and local customers get priority when visiting our venue.”
It adds: “Please do not try to enter our venue if you have traveled from out of town, the safety of our customers is paramount.”
Neighbouring pub The Surrey Arms also emphasised that access was only available to local residents at this time.
“This is to discourage large groups descending on Glossop and pushing us into tier 3 restrictions, forcing our businesses to close,” the landlord explained.
The official government advice is to avoid travelling outside of Greater Manchester whilst the region is classified in Tier 3.
People are permitted to travel to travel into or out of very high alert level areas for work, education, to access youth services, or for caring responsibilities.
Millions of people in the UK find themselves under tougher restrictions once again as cases rise across the country.
Greater Manchester joined Liverpool City Region and Lancashire in Tier 3 on Friday.
Wales is set to enter a ‘fire break’ lockdown from 6pm which will see all non-essential businesses close for 17 days.
Northern Ireland has also entered a lockdown for four weeks.
The Republic of Ireland, meanwhile, moved to the highest level of COVID restrictions this week – asking residents to work from home and to stay within 5km (3 miles) of their property when exercising.