Plea to businesses on customer safety

A number of reports have been received by the Council about businesses such as pubs and cafes allowing their customers to use outside seating areas for consuming food or drinks.

At the moment, unfortunately this still isn’t allowed. Businesses can sell food and drink as takeaway but it must be taken away from the business for consumption elsewhere.

The council is investigating these complaints and will be taking appropriate action where needed. For the time being, we all need to carry on keeping two metres from each other to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

Martin Eden, Director of Environment and Operations, said:

I understand that businesses are keen to get back to work, but the rules are there to protect us all. We have all worked so hard and sacrificed so much to control the spread of this terrible virus that I won’t allow the actions of a few irresponsible businesses to put that progress at risk.

We will be working with establishments on outdoor spaces for their customers where it is safe to do so when the hospitality sector is allowed to re-open, which is currently no earlier than July 4th.

If you are concerned about a business being open when it ought not to be or not following social distancing guidance please report it to publicprotection@blackburn.gov.uik

For advice and guidance for businesses on how to work safely please follow this link: https://www.blackburn.gov.uk/business/coronavirus-covid-19-advice-businesses