HOUSEHOLDS across Cheshire East and West boroughs will be banned from mixing indoors from Wednesday if MPs approve the Government’s plans.

A vote will take place in the House of Commons on Tuesday on whether to adopt the new three-tier system announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson earlier today, October 12.

If approved, the rules will come into effect across both boroughs the following day.

What it means for you

Both Cheshire boroughs have been placed into the ‘tier two’ lockdown category, meaning they are in a ‘high’ coronavirus alert level.

The new rules will prevent more than one household from mixing with another in any indoor setting – including private homes, pubs and restaurants.

Support bubbles can continue to meet as one household under the new restrictions.

In outdoor settings, including private gardens and parks, the ‘rule of six’ will continue to apply – meaning gatherings will be restricted to no more than six people.

The 10pm curfew will also continue for bars, pubs and restaurants.

Schools, universities and places of worship will remain open, while weddings and funerals can go ahead with restrictions on the number of attendees.

Exercise classes and organised sport can continue to take place outdoors, but these will only be permitted indoors if it is possible for people to avoid mixing with others they do not live or share a support bubble with.

Residents are also being asked to reduce the number of journeys they make – walking or cycling where possible – and to plan ahead to avoid busy times on public transport.

What about elsewhere in the north west?

Warrington and Greater Manchester have also been placed into ‘tier two’ lockdowns, meaning their rules will be the same as in Cheshire West and East boroughs.

The Liverpool City Region – which includes Merseyside and Halton – is in the ‘tier three’ lockdown.

There, pubs and bars will be closed, wedding receptions are not allowed and residents are being urged not to travel outside the area other than for work, education or caring responsibilities.

What the Government says

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Cheshire was entering a ‘high’ alert level ‘as a result of rising infection rates’.

He added: "With all the lessons we have learned in the last few months we are becoming better and better at fighting this virus.

“The weeks and months ahead will continue to be difficult and will test the mettle of this country [but] I have no doubt at all that together we will succeed.”

What do you think? Email yourviews@guardiangrp.co.uk