COUNCIL services across Lyme Regis have been largely unaffected by the shift into Tier 3 restrictions.

The government announced yesterday that the Dorset Council area of the county would be moved into Tier 3 Covid-19 restrictions.

Lyme Regis Town Council has reviewed the position on all its services and facilities following the announcement , which saw the county move from Tier 2 to the tighter restrictions.

The new restrictions will have minimal impact on the council’s operations, with car parks, public toilets, play parks, the skatepark, allotments, beach huts and open spaces including the beach and seafront gardens remaining open as normal.

The mini golf and table tennis in Lister Gardens will continue to operate on winter opening hours, as the guidance states leisure and sports facilities may remain open.

However, the council will be reinforcing the ‘rule of six’ while using outdoor facilities, with extra signs being placed in areas where people tend to gather, such as the skatepark and Anning Road play park.

The rules on weddings and funerals remain unchanged - weddings can continue to take place at the Lyme Regis Guildhall, limited to 15 people. Funerals may still be held at Lyme Regis Cemetery, limited to 30 people.

The council will also be writing those who have hired beach hut hirers and who have weddings booked at the Guildhall, reminding them of the travel restrictions in and out of Tier 4 areas and the Government advice to avoid travelling outside the Tier 3 area.

The council offices will remain closed when staff return to work from the Christmas break on Monday, January 4 in line with the current government advice that anyone who can work effectively from home should do so.

External workers, including gardeners, maintenance, enforcement and cleansing teams will continue to work as normal.

The town bus, service 71, will also be operating as normal and non-essential retail can continue at the Marine Parade Shelters.