THE coronavirus rate has decreased in Brighton and Hove as the city prepares for a nationwide lockdown.

In the week leading up to October 23, there were 445 cases registered in the city.

In the week leading to October 30, there were 406 positive tests.

This means the case rate per 100,000 people fell from 153 to 139.6.

However, this is still a stark increase from the rates recorded last month.

Across the UK, the average case rate is 153.

Rates have also decreased in Mid Sussex, Lewes, Wealden and Hastings.

This comes as the UK prepares to enter the second UK-wide lockdown.

READ MORE: Government told Sussex hospitals could be overwhelmed 

Leader of Brighton and Hove City Council said authorities have been anticipating stricter measures.

Green leader Phélim Mac Cafferty said: "There’s no doubt that the second lockdown to tackle rising rates of transmission of Covid-19 will see changes in how the city runs in the month ahead

"Similar to the restrictions brought in back in March, we will again all have to work together to stay safe and protect the most vulnerable in our communities.

The Argus:

Brighton and Hove City Council leader Phélim Mac Cafferty

"I understand the frustration so many of you will already feel facing this new set of restrictions. However, I know our city can once again rise to this important challenge to protect the ones we love."

Yesterday, The Argus reported that a scientific study predicted there was an 81 per cent probability that there could soon be more than 300 weekly coronavirus cases per 100,000 population in Brighton and Hove.

READ MORE: Coronavirus cases in Brighton could double, study warns

These figures "assume a situation in which (there is) no change in interventions" such as a local or national lockdown.

It is now hoped the national lockdown announced by Prime Minister, which comes into force tomorrow, will help slow the rate of infection.