Bolton Council's leader says he is 'disappointed and frustrated' with the decision to impose tier 3 coronavirus restrictions on the borough. 

Reacting to Boris Johnson's press conference this evening, Cllr David Greenhalgh said: “I am hugely disappointed and frustrated that the talks ended in failure when it appeared that progress was being made.

"Myself and the administration will continue to lobby for extra support for our borough’s businesses, who we feel have been disproportionately affected by over three months of lockdown." 

It comes after talks between the Government and Greater Manchester's leaders concluded without an agreement today. 

Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham held last-ditch talks with Boris Johnson earlier aimed at securing additional financial support for his consent on new restrictions.

But at a press conference this evening, the Prime Minister confirmed that Greater Manchester would move to the highest alert level, meaning Bolton will be placed in Tier 3 or “Very High” from 00.01am on Friday.

This means pubs and bars must close unless they are serving substantial meals and only serve alcohol as part of the meal.

Adult gaming centres, bingo halls, bookmakers, betting shops, casinos and soft play centres must also close.

People living in Bolton are also asked not to socialise with anyone they do not live with indoors, in a private garden or in outdoor hospitality, although they are still permitted to meet a support bubble and childcare bubble.

People must not socialise in a group of more than six in an outdoor public space such as a park and should avoid travelling outside Bolton, or entering another area rated “Very High” other than for work, education, accessing youth services, or to meet caring responsibilities.

People from Bolton should also avoid staying overnight in another part of the UK and visitors from elsewhere should avoid staying overnight in Bolton.

Mr Johnson said “not to act now” would put the lives of Greater Manchester’s residents “at risk”.

He added a “generous” offer of financial support had been made to the region, but Mayor Andy Burnham refused.

Referring to the break down in talks, Mr Johnson said: “I do regret this. As I said last week, we would have a better chance of defeating the virus if we work together.”

He added Greater Manchester would receive £22m in funding as part of a “comprehensive package of support” but that the “door was open to continue the conversation” so long as the support was in line with that offered to other areas affected.