Manchester bans alcohol in public places over bank holiday weekend due to Covid-19 fears

Manchester residents have been banned from drinking alcohol in public spaces in the city centre this bank holiday weekend.

It is the latest step to curb the spread of coronavirus after a surge in cases in the North West led to fresh lockdown curbs in Greater Manchester.

By banning the consumption of booze in non-licensed open spaces, officials hope to prevent gatherings and maintain social distancing.

The city's police force said a number of events have been cancelled for fears around public health.

Greater Manchester Police said: "An order which prevents people from consuming alcohol in open spaces has been put in place in the city centre this weekend due to the pandemic and fears around public health.

People sit with drinks at outdoor seating at a pub in the centre of Manchester (AFP via Getty Images)

"We're doing all we can to make sure legislation is complied with to keep everyone safe."

Inspector Jonathan Shivlock said: "Unfortunately, due to the current pandemic, events taking place over the bank holiday weekend have had to be cancelled for fears around public health and a possible lack of social distancing.

"In previous years during managed and licensed events people have been permitted to consume alcohol in open spaces.

"However, due to this year's events being cancelled, and for the fear of the effect it has on public health, there is a Public Space Protection Order in place in Manchester city centre which prohibits the consumption of alcohol in a non-licensed public place and will be enforced this weekend by Greater Manchester Police.

"Public health is one of GMP's priorities and we will do all that we can to ensure the population comply with the legislation, keeping the population safe.

"We urge anyone planning on gathering in the city centre this weekend to think twice, listen to government guidelines and protect the health of your family and friends by keeping to the social distancing rules this weekend."

Customers drink outside as bars on Thomas Street in the Northern Quarter (Getty Images)

In England, coronavirus restrictions remain in place in areas of Greater Manchester, Lancashire and West Yorkshire, Leicester, Luton and Northampton.

Measures in parts of northern England are expected to continue when they are reviewed on Thursday.

They could be more tightly targeted and focused on smaller areas, suggesting areas in lockdown could be subject to change.

NHS England said on Wednesday that nine more people have died in hospitals in England, bringing its total to 29,524.

Of those, five were in the North West.