COUNCIL'S STERN WARNING TO BUSINESSES TEMPTED TO BREACH LOCKDOWN RULES

                                       

Cllr Ron Shepherd: "Don't put lives at risk"

RESIDENTS of North East Lincolnshire Council are being urged to report any businesses that are tempted to break lockdown rules.

Under the current regulations, 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.

In a statement issued today, NELC warns: "Our enforcement officers  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.

"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."

In a message to residents, the council says: "If you spot a business that shouldn’t be open, you can report it at www.nelincs.gov.uk/coronavirus.

Cllr Ron Shepherd, portfolio holder for safer and stronger communities, says: “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."

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