With a growing number of COVID-19 cases in the London area, the Ontario government is moving the region into the next level of restrictions.
The province announced on Friday that, as of Monday at 12:01 a.m., London and Middlesex County are being moved from Yellow-Protect to Orange-Restrict in the COVID-19 Response Framework.
Many of the restrictions under the Orange level are the same as what is already in place locally under the Yellow level.
However, as of Monday, bars and restaurants will see a limit of 50 people allowed to be seated indoors. Only four people will be allowed to sit together and tables will have to be separated by a minimum of two metres or have impermeable barriers between them. There is to be no dancing, singing, or musical performance. Music will only be allowed to be played at a level no louder than a normal conversation.
Establishments will have to close at 10 p.m. each night and alcohol can only be served between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Buffet-style service won't be allowed and any patrons who are seated will have to provide contact information. All patrons will have to be screened for COVID-19 symptoms. Personal protective equipment, including eye protection, will be mandatory when a worker must come within two metres of another person who is not wearing a face covering. Outdoor dining, drive through, take out, and delivery are still permitted.
People using sports and recreational facilities will have to stay two metres apart, unless they are engaged in a sport. Gyms and fitness centres will be limited to 50 people. Only 10 will be allowed in an indoor fitness class while outdoor classes can have 25 people. Spectators other than parents or guardians who are supervising children will not be allowed.
The move comes as London and Middlesex County reported over 200 new cases of COVID-19 and 10 deaths since Sunday.
A full list of restrictions can be found here.