Sandwell Council has taken action against two separate business owners after receiving information of Covid-19 breaches from West Midlands Police.

The council has issued a direction to the business owner and occupier of Unit 10, Imex Business Park in Tipton, after police uncovered the premises had been converted into a pub called the Covid Arms. People in attendance were issued with directions to leave and the owner was issued with a £1,000 fixed penalty notice.

The owner and occupier have now been given a direction which restricts the use of the premises and prohibits the premises from being used for the purposes of gatherings, parties and/or any other event.

The council has also issued a prohibition notice to A.J Cuts barbers in Devonshire Road, Smethwick, after police uncovered the barber was still operating despite barbers being a restricted business under the Health Protection Regulations 2020. This prohibition notice required the business owner to immediately cease the activities. Councillor Maria Crompton, deputy leader of Sandwell Council, said:

“The owners of both these businesses have shown a complete disregard for the rules and the safety of their employees and other members of the public.

“Covid-19 infection rates are still high in Sandwell and we thank all those who are adhering to the restrictions and doing all they can to keep their employees and residents safe. Those who flout the rules and put others at risk will face action.

“We now have a proposed timeline for the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions so it is now more important than ever we do all we can to stick to the rules and help keep infection rates down in Sandwell.”  

Sandwell Council continues to work closely with West Midlands Police to identify and take action in response to Covid-19 breaches with the key aim of keeping everyone safe.

People can report any breaches relating to businesses by email.