Staffordshire could be moved into the second tier of coronavirus restrictions this weekend following an increase in cases.
The exact date when the new measures will come into place is yet to be confirmed, but “could be as soon as this weekend”, Staffordshire County Council said in a statement.
Under the “high” coronavirus alert level, people in the affected areas will not be able to mix socially with friends and family indoors in any setting, unless they live with them or have formed a support bubble.
Alan White, leader of Staffordshire County Council, said: “Our residents and businesses have made huge efforts to keep our county safe and open, but despite this, cases continue to rise rapidly and we are now facing tighter restrictions.
“This year, Staffordshire has showed what it does best – pulling together and supporting our communities, but now we need to redouble our efforts to avoid any further restrictions and protect our county.
“We can, and we must rise to this new challenge, but it is down to each and every one of us to stick to the new rules when they do come into force to help keep Staffordshire safe and open for business.”
