CONCERNS have been raised over the future of Halstead businesses after the country was plunged into a third national lockdown.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson put the nation in lockdown on Monday.

The new measures were a step above the already tough Tier 4 restrictions imposed on the district.

Essex and the Braintree district were some of the worst hit areas, with the district recording a staggering 1,570 cases and an infection rate of 1,028 per 100,000 people in the seven days leading up to December 30.

Halstead has also been hit hard with Halstead Central recording 91 new cases, 106 in Halstead East and the Colnes and 62 in Hedingham, Gosfield and Greenstead Green.

Following the announcement, concerns were raised over the future of businesses in the Halstead area.

Many businesses had already been closed for weeks due to previous restrictions.

Halstead mayor Mick Radley said: “I’m sure the announcement by the Prime Minister on Monday evening that the country is entering another lockdown came as no surprise.

“The significant increase in Covid-19 cases and the level of hospitalisations in Essex is becoming critical.

“Nevertheless, this will come as a further blow to everyone as we are restricted in going about our normal life.

“I feel so sorry for those that are worst affected. Businesses that are unable to trade and their employees unable to work have had a really tough time through 2020.

“I hope they can get some further support to help them through this difficult period.

“I’m sure we have all heard of some positive cases in and around the Halstead area.

“It’s really important that we protect each other in our community by following the guidelines and staying safe.

“The council has already seen an increase in the number of residents requesting the support of the dedicated group of volunteers co-ordinated by the town clerk.

“I’m sure they will provide invaluable support to residents in the coming weeks. A big thank you to them all.

“The news of the roll-out of the vaccine gives light at the end of the tunnel that better times are ahead, but until then we all need to dig deep and see this through.”

Halstead Chamber of Commerce and Trade chairman Mark Jeffrey added: “As with many we are disappointed we have to go back into lockdown and the strain again put on to small businesses in the town, however we totally understand the need for public safety, and we need to all do our bit to reduce the virus spreading in our area.

“We do welcome the news from Government on the grants being offered and hope these come in time for many businesses.

“But there are many businesses and self-employed which do seem to have been forgotten and we hope news of help does come soon for those as well.”