Businesses in Leeds reminded to follow the latest COVID-19 rules and restrictions

Leeds City Council and West Yorkshire Police are reminding businesses about the importance of following the latest COVID-19 restrictions, including the rule of six. 

The majority of businesses across the city have successfully put measures in place to enable them to trade in a way that keeps staff and customers safe, however a small number are still allowing the rules to be broken.

The council’s enforcement teams have been carrying out regular visits to businesses across Leeds, including this week in areas of Beeston, to offer support and advice on social distancing and safety measures and ensure they are up to date with the latest information.

In rare cases where businesses are not complying with the rules, council officers will engage, explain and encourage them to make the necessary changes, but where businesses continue to flout the rules and put public health at risk, action is being taken.

So far the council has issued four fixed penalty fines of £1000 to businesses who were not complying with the rule of six or social distancing. One venue has been prohibited from holding weddings/celebratory events and one venue has been banned from opening after 6pm.

Councillor Mohammed Rafique, executive member with responsibility for environmental health at Leeds City Council, said: 

“We are grateful for the majority of businesses across Leeds who have worked incredibly hard to ensure their premises are safe for customers and staff. We recognise that this year continues to be an incredible challenge for business owners and we do not take action lightly, however business owners need to be aware that there are consequences for those who continue to disregard the rules. We are at a crucial time in our fight to control the virus and it is vital now more than ever that everyone follows all of the rules, all of the time. If any business needs advice or guidance please get in touch so that the council can help and support you.”

Chief Inspector Richard Padwell, of Leeds District, West Yorkshire Police said:

“Our licensing officers and neighbourhood policing teams are continuing to work closely with our local authority partners to ensure businesses are complying with the latest regulations and restrictions to help reduce the spread of Covid-19.

“Leeds remains at a critical point and we continue to urge businesses and the people using them to play their part in keeping our communities safe by following the guidance without it getting to the stage where enforcement action is necessary.”

Businesses can access the latest guidance and contact information at: https://www.leeds.gov.uk/coronavirus/business

ENDS