Boris Johnson will make a statement to MPs on Monday, amid expectations that a three-tier local lockdown system will be introduced across England.
New coronavirus restrictions for North West England could be implemented as soon as Wednesday, Sky News understands.
During a meeting on Friday between local leaders and Westminster figures including the Housing Secretary, Robert Jenrick, a number of possibilities were outlined.
Central government is understood to be considering stopping people from travelling in and out of the worst-affected areas.
The three tiers – known as Local Covid Alert Levels – are expected to be medium, high and very high.
Under a very high alert, pubs and bars would have to shut, but not restaurants.
