Wigan pub closed for not following coronavirus regulations

Wigan Council officers and Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have been taking action against licenced premises not following regulations such as enforcing social distancing.

The Black Bull, on Market Street, has now been forced to close its doors.

The decision will be reviewed within seven days.

Coun Paul Prescott, cabinet member for planning and environmental services at Wigan Council, said: “While the majority of businesses have implemented measures to keep their customers and staff safe, closures like this act as a reminder to those who don’t abide by the rules and regulations.

“We hope that this will send a strong message to businesses, that the council and its partners will not hesitate to respond when there is evidence that shows they are not acting responsibly and within the guidelines that have been put in place to protect us all.

“Decisions like this are a last resort as we want all our businesses to be open so they can get back on a solid economic footing but we need to ensure we keep infection rates down and don’t undo all the good work of the past few months.”

Chief Inspector Liz Sanderson, of GMP’s Wigan District, said: “It is vital that licensed premises adhere to Government regulations in order to protect our communities, particularly given the heightened restrictions across Greater Manchester.

“As the closure demonstrates, we will take action against businesses which are flouting the rules and will use our legislative powers to ensure premises operate safely.

“I hope this serves as a stark warning to other licensed premises that we will not hesitate to use enforcement if they are failing to comply with the regulations.”

Residents can report other businesses in breach of the coronavirus regulations by emailing [email protected].