Carlisle City Council is reminding licensed premises to follow Coronavirus guidance or face prosecution.
The council is warning local pubs that they must comply with social distancing rules. Firmer action is planned for businesses that refuse to stick to the rules.
The Cumberland Inn, Botchergate, Carlisle was issued a prohibition notice by the council today (Friday, 11 September 2020) after evidence showed that the pub was not controlling the risks associated with Coronavirus. The prohibition notice, served under the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) (England) Regulations 2020, prevents the venue from operating the premises as a venue used for dancing by members of the public and the playing of music, whether live or recorded, for dancing. The premises are also being investigated for breaches of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 for failing to protect both staff and members of the public from the risks associated with Coronavirus.
Operators of licensed premises are reminded that where music is played in a venue, it must be of such a nature and volume so a as not to encourage dancing and avoid people needing to unduly raise their voices to each other. This includes, but is not limited to, refraining from playing music that may encourage shouting f played at a volume that makes normal conversation difficult.
The Regulatory Authorities and Police are closely working together to monitor the situation in Carlisle and those found to be breaching the guidelines will be investigated.
Carlisle City Council spokesperson said: “With new stricter restrictions soon coming into force, we’re reminding local businesses that we’ll take action if the rules aren’t followed. Our priority is the safety of the pubs and rules are in place to protect everyone.”
All employers have a legal responsibility under Health and Safety Law to assess and manage the risk of COVID-19 and protect workers and customers. This means businesses need to think about the risks they face and do everything reasonably practicable to minimise them. This responsibility does not just relate to the risks within the business but also to outside areas associated with the business, for example beer gardens and queues that form on the highway/pavement awaiting entry into the premises.
Government guidance is in place and all businesses need to complete a risk assessment showing that they have put in place measures to protect their customers and staff.
It is vitally important that customers entering hospitality venues take note and follow instruction provided by business operators. These controls are designed to ensure they are kept safe whilst enjoying the facilities. It is in the interests of everyone to take care of themselves and others at a time when the risk of COVID-19 infection remains in place.
Guidance on how to operate safely during the pandemic, including social distancing measures, can be found at Gov.uk
If anyone has any concerns about any local businesses not adhering to coronavirus rules, they are asked to contact the City Council by emailing [email protected]
