Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said: “Moving Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool into Tier 4, the very highest level of restrictions, will be incredibly disappointing to businesses across the region, but advice from Public Health England and the scientific advisers has strongly recommended that we need to move into Tier 4.
“I understand the frustration felt by many people, especially business owners, at the increased restrictions, but the outpouring of community spirit in the face of the coronavirus has shown that even during one of our darkest periods our community spirit cannot be broken.”
Mr Houchen said: “The last nine months have been incredibly difficult for local people and businesses across the region but, with two vaccines now approved, 2021 can now be a year of hope and recovery.”
The Tory mayor said: “While we have a way to go, it’s clear with two vaccines now approved the end really is in sight.”
