Ayrshire is set to remain under level three restrictions when the Scottish Government’s new system is implemented next week, according to a leaked memo.

The document states that no changes from the current level are being considered for most central belt areas, with the exception of North and South Lanarkshire, which may move into the highest tier.

The leaked memo from the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) comes ahead of today’s parliamentary debate on the government’s levels system which is due to start on November 2.

The new system will see different areas of the country under different restrictions dependent on the situation.

The document states: “No changes are currently being considered in relation to other central belt areas.

“If that remains the case and is confirmed later this week, these areas would remain in Level 3 for the time being.

“There are some signs in the data of progress in the east of the central belt area, for example in Edinburgh and East Lothian, but some further consolidation of that progress is likely to be required before it would be safe, on public health grounds, to move them to Level 2.”

Under the proposed level three, there should be no in-home socialising, and a maximum of six people from two households can meet outdoors and in public spaces.

The current arrangements for hospitality will remain in place, with the sale of alcohol not permitted indoors and outdoors.

Takeaways will be permitted for alcohol and food as per the existing arrangements, and food consumed in businesses will be permitted but time restrictions may apply.

There should be no non-essential travel into or out of a level three area, with exceptions for work, education, shopping, health etc.

Leisure and entertainment facilities will be closed and adult contact sports below professional level will remain off.

Full details on level three restrictions and other levels can be found at http://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-protection-levels.