Two Wrexham premises served with “compliance notices” after ignoring social distancing guidelines

Two licensed premises in Wrexham have been issued with “Compliance Notices” after ignoring social distancing guidelines.

Working with North Wales Police, the council’s licensing department has been visiting licensed premises over the last three weeks to remind those in charge of their obligation to ensure that social distancing is in hand to provide a safe environment for staff and customers.

The two affected premises have now received their “Compliance Notice” after ignoring initial warnings. They will be kept under scrutiny by licensing.

If they continue to flout the rules they risk being prosecuted.

Cllr Hugh Jones, Lead Member for Communties, Partnerships, Public Protection and Community Safety, says: “We know that licensed premises have had a difficult time during the lockdown but that’s no excuse for ignoring public safety requirements, particularly after warnings had been given.

“I hope this serves as a warning to all who have a responsibility for the safety of their staff and customers that we will take action.

“Coronavirus is still amongst us and we all need to remain vigilant to this. Social distancing and hand hygiene are two of the key messages we are trying to get across to everyone in order to continue to keep Wrexham safe.”

Inspections of licensed premises have been taking place since the Welsh Government allowed premises to reopen outside areas.

Pubs and bars have been able to open indoors from August 3, with measures in place to control social distancing. Reports show that there has generally been a high level of compliance despite a few isolated incidents where the rules were not being applied.