Licensed premises failing to comply with public health advice

Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is pursuing in excess of 10 licensed premises which have failed to comply with the public health advice issued on Friday, March 20 – which directed pubs, bars and restaurants to close.

The Council has responded, utilising its regulatory and enforcements powers, to numerous reports of premises not complying with this public health advice.

County Borough Councillor Rhys Lewis, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture & Welsh Language said: “It is concerning and disappointing that a number of licensed premises in the County Borough have consciously sought not to comply with the public health instructions issued by the UK and Welsh Governments last Friday.

“Following numerous reports that premises had not complied with advice and have continued operating over the last weekend, particularly public houses and bars, the Council yesterday (Monday, March 23) commenced measures which could lead to the licenses of a number of premises being revoked.

“These reckless actions place the public health of our communities at risk, not just those individuals who choose to ignore the advice to stay safe at home.

“The subsequent instructions issued by the Prime Minister and First Minister yesterday evening (Monday, March 23) will require the Council, through its regulatory functions, to monitor and if necessary take licensing actions against premises which do not comply.”