Businesses across Bolton have been praised for sticking to coronavirus lockdown rules - with none fined in the first two months of the crisis.
Bolton Council says the majority of local firms have complied with restrictions put in place to control the spread of the virus.
Non-essential shops and traders were forced to close on March 26 when the government introduced strict lockdown measures. Restrictions have only gradually been eased in recent weeks with premises such as garden centres and golf clubs allowed to open.
The majority of businesses providing non-essential goods and services must remain closed.
Bolton Council’s Regulatory Services department is responsible for enforcing the restrictions across the borough - with the police providing support with licensed premises such as pubs and restaurants.
But only a small number of firms have flouted the rules - with most complying when sent a warning letter from the council.
As a council we are doing everything we can to help businesses to access the support needed to get through the crisis.
Cllr Hilary Fairclough, Council Cabinet Member for Environmental Regulatory Services said: “The level of compliance with the lockdown by Bolton’s businesses during the crisis has been impressive. The vast majority have done what’s asked of them straight away.
“In most cases, where we have sent warning letters, the businesses have quickly closed. So we haven’t had to go to the enforcement stage. We have not had to consider fines or court action.
“Some issues have emerged in recent weeks as some of the lockdown measures have been eased. A small number of businesses have taken this as a cue to start opening – and where one opens it can encourage others to do so.
“But I would urge firms to put the safety of their local community, and wider public health, first. Please remain closed until restrictions are eased - and if you need any advice or guidance get in touch; the council is here to help you.
“I know the last few months have been incredibly difficult for our local business community. Measures rightly put in place to protect the NHS and save lives have had a knock on impact on people’s livelihoods.
“As a council we are doing everything we can to help businesses to access the support needed to get through the crisis.
“I want to thank all our local businesses which are continuing to provide essential goods and services to communities - and the non-essential businesses which have closed when asked to do so. You are all playing your part.”
Bolton Council has also been working to advise firms on the rules - responding to requests for information and sending out guidance.
All mobile phone repair shops, for example, have recently been written to reminding them that they must remain closed to the public.
Issues have also been identified with social distancing not being observed at some independent traders including local grocery stores and mini-supermarkets.
Cllr Fairclough adds: “We’ve written to these firms reminding them of their responsibilities on social distancing along with supplying posters displaying key messages. They must ensure customer safety when people are queueing outside and when people are in the shops. This is crucial if we are to continue to slow the spread of the virus.
“We all want to return to normal life as soon as possible and the re-opening of more shops and businesses is part of that. But please don’t open yet unless you are included on the list of businesses which can operate.”
Since Lockdown began Bolton Council has:
- Received 377 complaints from the public about businesses operating illegally
- Responded to 904 requests for advice from businesses
- Visited 177 premises to carry out spot checks or respond to complaints
- Sent 78 warning letters to businesses
- Issued six prohibition notices ordering businesses to close immediately
On May 25 the government issued new guidance on the re-opening of further retail outlets in England as part of the ongoing easing of lockdown measures. This will allow some businesses selling non-essential goods and services to reopen.
From June 1, outdoor markets and car showrooms can reopen, while other non-essential retail including shops selling clothes, shoes, toys, furniture, books, and electronics, plus tailors, auction houses, photography studios, and indoor markets, are expected to be able to reopen from June 15.
Businesses wanting to reopen must ensure they have taken the necessary steps to become COVID-19 secure in line with current Health and Safety legislation.
They must carry out appropriate risk assessments in discussion with trades union representatives or workers and are confident they are managing the risks and have measures in place to ensure the safety of staff and customers.
Hairdressers, salons, nail bars, pubs and cafes will not be permitted to open until further notice as there is more risk of person to person transmission of infection within these environments.
Bolton businesses preparing to reopen on these dates are advised to check government guidance on safe working during coronavirus.