THE Wee County is likely to move under Level 3 restrictions with the wider central belt as Scotland implements a five-tier coronavirus framework next week.

A final decision is expected on Thursday, October 29, after Holyrood debates the framework this evening (Tuesday, October 27).

In her opening statement, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon gave an indication on what tier various areas of Scotland could fall under come next Monday, November 2.

She confirmed the central belt, including Clackmannanshire and surrounding areas, are likely to come under Level 3 restrictions, with rules similar to the ones which have already been in place for around two weeks.

No final decision has been made yet, however.

Based on the framework published last week, which is likely to see some changes tonight, Level 3 would mean no meeting others and no socialising indoors, while six people from two households could meet outdoors and in public places.

There would be no non-essential travel in and out of the Level 3 area.

Exemptions include travel for work, education, health, outdoor exercise, wedding and funerals as well as transit through restricted areas.

Under Level 3, car sharing would be discouraged.

Face coverings would be compulsory on transport with people would be discouraged from non-essential use of public transport.

Close contact services, such as hairdressers and barbers, could remain open, subject to additional protective measures.

Football grounds and professional sporting events would be closed to spectators if Clacks moves under Level 3.

Worship would be restricted in numbers, with up to 50 people in a church at a time.

Schools would remain open but would see enhanced protective measures.

Only individual exercise would be permitted indoors and non-professional contact sports would have to cease for adults.

For the hospitality sector, which has already been under pressure in Clacks due to recent restrictions, alcohol sales would not be permitted neither indoors nor outdoors.

Restaurants and bars serving food could continue to do so, but time restrictions may apply.

The final framework is expected in the coming days.

Ahead of the currently ongoing debate, the first minister said: “I know that when people hear the daily figures it’s easy to feel as though the hard sacrifices we are all living with are not making a difference.

“But by taking these difficult steps we will help suppress the virus, and that is why I am asking everyone to stick with it.”