The Government has been urged to work with councils to develop a clear lockdown exit strategy by the Local Government Association (LGA).

The LGA warned Whitehall must learn from the past seven months and ensure a clear strategy is developed for when national restrictions end on December 2 in partnership with local councils.

It is also calling for clear criteria about which restrictions or Tier Alert Levels will apply, and for the Government to build upon successful local contact tracing efforts.

Cllr James Jamieson, LGA Chairman, said: 'Clarity about the criteria for lifting restrictions locally will be important for people up and down the country and we urge the Government to work with councils to co-design the exit strategy from this lockdown.

'Driving strong local action will add further pressure to already over-stretched council budgets. Only with the necessary powers and resources, can councils continue to lead local efforts to tackle outbreaks swiftly and effectively, keep services running and support communities and businesses.'