COVID-19: Seen a business that shouldn’t be open? Report it

Businesses are being reminded to adhere to Government rules following the announcement of another national lockdown.

To reduce social contact, the regulations require some businesses to close and impose restrictions on how some businesses provide goods and services.

The current national lockdown means non-essential retail must close and can only run click-and-collect and delivery.

Hospitality must also close but can offer sales by takeaway (until 11pm), click-and-collect, drive-through or delivery. Alcohol cannot be purchased through takeaway or click-and-collect from hospitality venues.

Full details on which businesses must close and what they can and cannot do during the current lockdown can be found at: www.gov.uk/guidance/national-lockdown-stay-at-home#businesses-and-venues

Enforcement officers at North East Lincolnshire Council have powers to force businesses to close if they ignore regulations introduced to slow the spread of the virus.

The Government has given clear guidance on what businesses need to do to help reduce the spread of coronavirus.

If you spot a business that shouldn’t be open, you can report it at www.nelincs.gov.uk/coronavirus.

Council officers will monitor compliance with these regulations, with support from the police if appropriate.

Businesses and venues that breach the law will be subject to prohibition notices and fixed penalties.

If prohibition notices are not followed, or fixed penalty notices not paid, businesses may also be taken to court with magistrates able to impose potentially unlimited fines.

If enforcement action is taken, the details of any premises involved will become a matter of public record.

Councillor Ron Shepherd, portfolio holder for safer and stronger communities, said: “Everyone needs to do their bit to stop the spread of coronavirus.

“Businesses that ignore the regulations and remain open are putting lives at risk.

“Please listen to the advice – stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.

“And remember to wash your hands, cover your face, and make space. We’re all in this together.”