The Government is this week reviewing the Covid-19 Tier restrictions. A range of measures will determine whether the city will move from Tier 3 to Tier 2, such as our rate of infection and number of people over 60 who have tested positive for the virus. Current rates in Nottingham are encouraging - we have 147 cases per 100,000 population, which is below the national average of 166 cases per 100,000. Our city is ranked 150th nationally for cases. Although this strengthens our case for moving to Tier 2, which will allow our pubs and restaurants to reopen if they serve substantial meals, boosting the local economy after a difficult year, the Government mood seems to be against loosening restrictions nationally before Christmas.

It?s clear we need to prepare for an altered future beyond Covid and to that end, the Nottingham Growth Board has developed the Nottingham Economic Recovery and Renewal Plan. Focusing on six key ambitions, the Plan reimagines Nottingham as a green, creative, inclusive and digitally enabled city, widely recognised as an internationally renowned city of culture, creativity & innovation; the UK?s first carbon neutral city and a place which offers opportunities for everyone.

Published for consultation with local people and businesses, the plan sets out a bold vision to address the major economic challenges Covid has created or accelerated, including rising unemployment, the decline of high street retail and the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on young people, BAME communities, women, older people and people with disabilities. At the end of a very difficult year for everyone, it brings much-needed hope and aspiration for the years ahead. More information here