'Chesterfield is Tier 3, London is Tier 2. Work that out': Chesterfield businesses react to Tier 3 announcement

From December 2, the county will move from national lockdown into Tier Three ‘Very High Alert’ level of the new localised restrictions.

This means hospitality settings, such as bars, pubs, cafés and restaurants must remain closed, apart from providing takeaways.

Sharon Hilton, owner of Chesterfield’s Vintage Tea Rooms, described the news as ‘devastating’ and said hospitality venues in the town had hoped for Tier Two.

"It’s the worst news for us,” she said. “It will be reviewed in two weeks apparently but in some ways the uncertainty of that makes things even worse.

MORE: Everything you can and can't do in Chesterfield under new Tier 3 rules from December 2

"If you went into Tier Two, bought lots of stock and then two weeks later moved back up a tier it would be a nightmare.

"We’re hoping to do some sort of takeaway option for our Christmas afternoon teas if footfall improves when non-essential shops reopen.

"The Christmas announcement was another kick in the teeth for us because we’ve had to remain shut, but people can do virtually anyhting else over Christmas. It makes no sense.”

Chesterfield town centre pub The Market said: “Chesterfield is Tier Three, London is Tier Two. Work that out.”

The Chesterfield Arms, at Newbold, posted on Facebook that it ‘looks like we are going to have to wait a little bit longer’ and urged people to ‘keep the faith’.

A spokesperson for bowling alley Chesterfield Bowl said: “It’s so sad families won’t get to enjoy a perfectly safe centre until at least late December.

"With little help, it’s killing the business but we’re hopeful we’ll be able to get through this if we can open soon.”

Rick Blackmore, CBI East Midlands Director: “For many businesses in the East Midlands, going into toughened tiers while waiting for a vaccine will feel like suspended animation.

“Some parts of the economy, such as retail, can begin to re-open and look towards a recovery. It gives our high streets a chance to rescue some of the vital festive trading period.

“But for other businesses the ongoing restrictions in tiers 2 and 3 will leave their survival hanging by a thread."

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.