Alliance Health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw MLA has urged the public to heed the warnings around rising cases of coronavirus transmission as another area was added to the list of areas where extra restrictions are to be imposed.

The postcode BT60 will join the list of areas where restrictions will occur on gatherings in private homes. Certain parts of the Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council area, as detailed on the NI Direct website, will also be officially under the regulations.

“Whatever our concerns about how the new restrictions were communicated, the core message is clear – transmission is not out of control but it is rising at an uncomfortable level,” said South Belfast MLA Ms Bradshaw.

“I would urge the public to continue everywhere to show caution, and to remember the key messages of hand hygiene, physical distancing and face coverings in indoor public spaces.

“By working together, we can learn to live with the virus – but caution and civic responsibility must be the watchwords.”