New enforcement powers for the enforcement of business closures came into effect on 21st March 2020. A business operating in contravention of the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Business Closures) Regulations 2020 will be committing an offence and will be subject to prohibition notices and potentially unlimited fines.
Premises including restaurants, cafes (including workplace canteens), bars, public houses, cinemas, theatres, nightclubs, bingo halls, concert halls, museums and galleries, betting shops, spas, massage parlours, indoor skating rinks and indoor fitness studios, gyms, swimming pools or other indoor leisure centres are required to close or remain closed until otherwise directed by the Secretary of State.
The law does not include premises that sell food or drink for consumption off the premises (takeaways), nor does it apply to food or drink sold by a hotel or other accommodation provider as part of room service. A full list is available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/business-and-other-venues-subject-to-further-social-distancing-measures/businesses-and-other-venues-subject-to-further-social-distancing-measures.
East Staffordshire Borough Council will be monitoring compliance with these regulations alongside Trading Standards and the Police and will take enforcement action where required.
If you would like to report a business that is continuing to operate please contact Environmental Health on 01283 508578.