CAR washes are among the services affected by Tier 4 coronavirus lockdown rules.
As of midnight last night, three quarters of England are now under the toughest coronavirus lockdown measures.
Changes to Tier 4 came into force at midnight on December 30
It comes as a new mutant strain of coronavirus believed to be at least 50% more contagious threatens to overwhelm the NHS.
Yesterday, a further 981 Covid-19 deaths were recorded – the highest daily figure since April 24, when 1,010 deaths were reported.
Now, areas including the North East and the Midlands join London and the South East in Tier 4.
Under the restrictions, households are urged to stay at home and only go outside if necessary.
Non-essential retail shops, indoor gyms and hairdressers must also close – but what does it mean for those wanting to get a car wash?
Automatic car washes are allowed to stay open in all places that are under Tier 4 coronavirus restrictions.
But unfortunately, manual car washes are not allowed to open over fears it could put workers at risk of catching and spreading the virus.
Many automatic car washes are located at petrol stations in the UK, which are able to open in Tier 4 because they are an essential service.
Vehicle repair, MOT services, bicycle shops, taxi services and vehicle hire businesses can also keep operating during Tier 4 lockdowns.
You can also still visit the supermarket for food and other essentials.
The government does not specifically address car washes in its Tier 3 rules online.
But it is assumed manual car washes are allowed to stay open in Tiers 3, 2, and 1, as long as the business is abiding by Covid-secure guidelines.
Automatic car washes are allowed to remain open.
Trending In The News has contacted the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy for clarification and we will update this page when we hear back.
Garden centres can also stay open in Tier 4 areas but shoppers must social distance and wear a mask to keep shoppers and staff safe.
We explain whether DIY stores are open in Tier 4 – and the opening times of B&Q, Homebase and Wickes.
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