Councillors given clarification on holiday rules after querying Christmas bookings in Northumberland

Coronavirus-related travel restrictions are being relaxed from December 23-27 and a number of accommodation providers in the area are taking bookings.

Cllr Alan Trotter raised the issue at a meeting of North Sunderland Parish Council.

Government advice states: ‘You can stay in a hotel, hostel or B&B, in line with the rules in your tier. In Tier 3, in order to be located near your Christmas bubble, you can stay in a hotel between 22 and 28 December, as long as you’re staying by yourself or with other members of your household, or support bubble.

‘You should not gather as a Christmas bubble in a hotel, hostel or B&B unless a member of your bubble lives there permanently.

‘You can stay in private rented accommodation such as short-term holiday lets with members of your household, or your Christmas bubble.’

Cllr Ailsa Shiel noted that a number of holiday homes are currently occupied in the village.

Cllr Guy Renner-Thompson, local ward member on Northumberland County Council, said: “There is a difference between going to your own second home and paying for a holiday let. Someone from Newcastle can come to their second home in Seahouses under the restrictions.”

Tier 3 restrictions mean that accommodation such as hotels, B&Bs, campsites, holiday lets and guest houses must close. These premises can only open for reasons including people unable to return to their main residence or someone who uses it as their main residence.

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