West Sussex businesses breaking coronavirus rules: Trading Standards shares details of complaints

West Sussex Trading Standards has shared details of complaints against businesses breaking the current coronavirus measures.
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A spokesman said a 'small number of businesses' are ignoring advice and officers have received more than 200 complaints about businesses not complying.

Complaints included businesses opening illegally and social distancing breaches.

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These complaints were looked into and officers have issued advice and three notices for non-compliance, Trading Standards said.

West Sussex Trading Standards have revealed some details of the complaintsWest Sussex Trading Standards have revealed some details of the complaints
West Sussex Trading Standards have revealed some details of the complaints

Types of businesses in the firing line included a florist, a vape shop, a domestic appliance shop and a shop selling garden machinery.

A Trading Standards spokesman would not give names of the businesses given notices.

Richard Sargeant, West Sussex Trading Standards Team Manager, said: “I would like to thank all those businesses who are complying with government advice. While we know most businesses are doing so, there are a small number who are continuing to ignore restrictions and to open as usual.

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“Practising social distancing is vital when it comes to stopping the spread of this virus. Ignoring regulations could endanger people’s lives and I urge residents to continue to let us know if they are aware of this happening.”

Businesses considered to be ‘non-essential’, including pubs, restaurants, cafes, cinemas, theatres and hotels, have been ordered to close to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Deborah Urquhart, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “We appreciate this is a difficult time for everyone, including businesses that are being forced to close.

“However in order to keep residents safe, it is so important that we all comply with government advice. Remember to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.”

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Businesses looking for information and advice about the current situation can click here.

Anyone concerned that a business that should be closed is continuing to trade, should contact Trading Standards at www.westsussex.gov.uk/tsreport or via Citizens Advice on 03444 111 444.