Organised grassroots sport will be allowed to resume when the lockdown is lifted on December 2.
Even in Tier 3, grassroots sport including football can take place from Wednesday. Gyms and swimming pools will reopen too.
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowdon said: "This is a big step forward for sport. Bringing grassroots sport back was my number one priority so I’m pleased we are reopening sports and gyms in every tier, in recognition of the significant health benefits."
Under the Tier 3 rules which will apply to the North East, classes and organised sport can take place outside. Indoors, people will not be able to play sport with anybody from outside their household or bubble.
But what does 'organised sport' mean? Does it mean you can only play football in Tier 3 areas if you belong to a club?
In a nutshell, a game of football is only allowed if it is played outdoors and under the supervision of a sports governing body in a Covid-19 secure venue. That doesn't mean only organised teams and clubs can play football though, anybody can, as long as the game is played at an approved venue.
A kickabout in the park, street or beach is not allowed, but casual players can book pitches to play with friends at venues like Goals and Powerleague, as they operate under the FA's Covid secure guidance.
So you can play five-a-side, seven-a-side and 11-aside casual games, as long as you book a pitch at a venue which operates under the FA's guidelines. Both Powerleague and Goals are among the centres taking bookings in Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland and around the North East for games from December 2.
Organised grassroots sports can resume, so Sunday league, non-league and amateur football will return. Kids' clubs are allowed to resume too. School sport has been allowed to continue through the lockdown as long as schools have been open.
But indoor football will not be allowed under Tier 3 rules, other than for elite, under-18 and disabled players in organised settings.
Spectators are allowed, within limits, under Tier 2 and Tier 1, but they are not allowed to attend games played in Tier 3 areas.
