Coronavirus: Gütersloh lockdown lifted after German court ruling

A German court has ended a lockdown imposed to tackle a coronavirus outbreak at a meat packing facility. While a lockdown was 'not unreasonable' at first, the court ruled that authorities should have replaced it with more focused measures. Officials in North Rhine-Westphalia brought back a lockdown around Gütersloh in June after more than 1,500 Tönnies plant workers tested positive. It was due to end on Wednesday, albeit with the option to extend it again. But the state's Higher Administrative Court overturned the measures with immediate effect on Monday, calling them disproportionate. Restaurants, bars and gyms can now reopen in Gütersloh district, and up to 10 people can meet outside - in line with national restrictions. Kindergartens will reopen on Wednesday, officials said.