Midlothian to remain in level three restrictions

Midlothian will remain in level three restrictions rather than go down to level two, as was announced last week.

Both Midlothian and East Lothian were to move from level three to level two from 6am today, but an increase in cases will leave Midlothian in level three.

East Lothian has moved to level two as planned.

Last week, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon indicated that both local authorities could see an easing in protection levels tomorrow “assuming no significant deterioration before then”.

Reacting to the news on Monday, Midlothian Council leader Councillor Derek Milligan said: “This is disappointing for business and communities given the hard work and preparation that has gone into the plans for opening up tomorrow.

“Many businesses have taken staff back from furlough and placed orders for goods worth tens of thousands of pounds, some of which is perishable.

“This decision will make an already volatile situation worse.

“We are also disappointed at the short notice given the importance of this decision.

“On Monday last week we received an email to say we would remain in level three, by the Tuesday we received word that we would be moving to level two and now today we hear that we are back in level three based on the data, which was only shared with us this morning.”

The First Minister said: “I know this will be disappointing for people in Midlothian; however, it is better than moving down a level only to possibly have to move back up again in a week’s time.

“We were clear that moving Midlothian to level two was dependent on current positive trends in this area continuing.

“But unfortunately, over the last week we have seen an increase in case numbers and test positivity rates in Midlothian.

“We will continue to monitor the position in Midlothian and work together with the council on its plans for ensuring that a move down is sustainable when the time is right.”