A BUSINESS leader has described Renfrewshire’s imminent return to Tier 4 of lockdown as “a disaster” for traders.

The Scottish Government has announced that the area will go back into the toughest level of restrictions on Boxing Day and remain there for at least three weeks.

Allan Henderson, chair of the Johnstone Business Consortium, fears the decision will be the final straw for a number of traders who are already struggling to survive after a tough year.

“It’s a nightmare,” he told The Gazette. “I’m very concerned about the future of local businesses next year.

“The Scottish Government can’t just keep opening and shutting businesses like this. It’s not viable in the long term.

“The problem appears to be that nobody knows what to do anymore. It’s simply a disaster for small businesses.”

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said a move to Tier 4 is necessary across mainland Scotland from Boxing Day after the emergence of a faster-spreading strain of coronavirus.

It will mean the closure of all non-essential shops, pubs, restaurants, gyms and hair and beauty salons.

In addition, schools will return later than originally planned after the Christmas holidays.

Ms Sturgeon said they should resume from January 11, with learning taking place online until at least January 18.

Mr Henderson, who runs a florist shop in Johnstone town centre, admits it is difficult for business owners to remain optimistic about their prospects for 2021 ahead of the return to Tier 4 rules.

“Right now, there’s nothing else we can do but just plod on as best we can,” he said.