36 covid fines have been handed out to businesses in West Sussex

West Sussex trading standards have been handing out fines to businesses who refuse to comply with coronavirus regulations.

Since the start of the national lockdown in March 2020, Trading Standards officers have issued 36 notices where business was refusing to comply with COVID-19 regulations.

Businesses found to be non-compliant have included hairdressers, carwashes and retailers. One business has received multiple fines following the involvement of Trading Standards.

Officers investigated these businesses after receiving complaints that they were opening illegally or not taking contact details of customers.

By not following these lockdown restrictions, businesses are putting their customers at serious risk.

Peter Aston, West Sussex Trading Standards Team Manager, said: “It is the law for certain businesses to close during the lockdown. The majority of businesses have complied with regulations and I would like to thank everyone who has worked so hard to do so.

“Whilst we do appreciate this is a difficult time for businesses, particularly those who have had to close, not only does breaking the restrictions put customers at risk, it’s not fair to the vast majority of businesses who are complying with the regulations. Our priority is to keep residents safe and I want to send a clear message that we will take action against any business which refuses to follow the law.”

Deborah Urquhart, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “Trading Standards officers have been working incredibly hard throughout the pandemic to ensure businesses comply with COVID-19 restrictions. Unfortunately a small minority of businesses have flouted the rules and officers have needed to take enforcement action.

“I would like to thank all of those businesses who have complied with the regulations throughout. It is absolutely vital we all continue to comply with the restrictions and work together to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

#KeepWestSussexSafe

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