Fourth Cradley Heath mini-mart closed

A fourth shop in Cradley Heath has been ordered to close as Sandwell Council continues to tackle the sale of illegal goods.

An order to close Top G's on the town’s High Street was granted at Walsall Magistrates Court on Monday.

The council's Trading Standards team successfully secured the two-month closure order after officers discovered illicit tobacco products being sold from the premises.

This is the fourth shop in the town to be ordered to close following three successful applications for closure orders at other premises over the past few weeks.

This latest action, undertaken in partnership with West Midlands Police, means Top G's must cease trading and remain closed for two months, disrupting suspected criminal activity and helping to protect residents and businesses.

The council has also called for stronger powers for local authorities and supports Government proposals to extend the maximum duration of closure orders from three months to 12 months under the Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

Councillor Bob Jones, Sandwell Council's Cabinet Member for Environment and Enforcement, said: "Securing our fourth Closure Order in just a few weeks sends a clear message that Sandwell Council will not tolerate illegal activity on our high streets.

"We are continuing to work closely with West Midlands Police and our partners to identify businesses that are breaking the law and take robust enforcement action.

"The vast majority of businesses across Sandwell make a positive contribution to our communities and local economy. Our focus is on protecting those legitimate traders, supporting residents and ensuring our town centres remain safe, welcoming and vibrant places for everyone.

"We will continue using every tool available to disrupt criminal activity and hold those responsible to account."

Tackling criminal and anti-social behaviour remains a key priority for Sandwell Council, with officers continuing to work alongside police and other agencies to gather intelligence, investigate concerns and take enforcement action where necessary.

Further applications to close other shops will be pursued in the coming weeks.

Sandwell Council is also committed to tackling the sale of illicit tobacco. Removing the sale of cheap and counterfeit cigarettes is an important part of the council’s work to support people to stop smoking.