Lockdown
The only way is lockdown according to the county council – unless you live in Southend or Thurrock.
Health secretary confirms London and other areas of England will move to tier 2, saying infection rate in the capital is on “a steep upward path”.
The region's leaders had anticipated the northern city would move into tier 3 restrictions to stem the spread of coronavirus.
"Boris and co have done nothing for the north," said the owner of the pub in New Brighton, Merseyside, following its closure under the tier 3 rules.
First minister Mark Drakeford had demanded Boris Johnson introduce the measure across the UK.
Sage scientists called for the measure back in September. But concerns have been raised about the long-term impact of a short lockdown.
Schools will shut for two weeks while pubs and restaurants are to close for a month.
The prime minister is under increasing pressure to impose a national lockdown, with scientists, politicians and the public favouring for one.
Tory backbenchers staged rebellion by forcing a vote, but were unable to inflict a defeat on the government.
Downing Street refuses to rule out fresh curbs, including ban for the capital.