The overwhelming majority of businesses in Lambeth have stuck to the guidelines, followed advice and done their upmost to keep people safe.
But where breaches have been found, Lambeth Council has taken firm action including issuing warning letters and Fixed Penalty Notices for persistent rule breaking.
Last week a café in West Norwood was suspected of breaching regulations by allowing customers to consume food and alcohol on the premises.
Lambeth Council’s enforcement team observed suspicious activity and informed the Metropolitan Police who conducted a joint visit with the council the following day.
The owner initially claimed there were no customers inside but after a search of the premises, including its rear outdoor area, a dozen people were found hiding behind a fence in a neighbouring garden.
Police escorted all 12 people out of the premises and were handed £200 fines for breaching Covid-19 regulations, while the owners were given a £1,000 fine.
Between March 15- March 21 Lambeth Council carried out 262 visits to businesses in the borough ranging from takeaways and corner shops to supermarkets and cafes.
A total of 28 premises were found to be breaching Covid-19 regulations resulting in six fixed penalty notices.
Enforcement officers also issued two prohibition notices and a further seven warning letters during the visits.
Lambeth Council wardens also visited parks and open spaces to ensure people were sticking to social distancing rules.
Council view
Cllr Jacqui Dyer, Lambeth’s Cabinet Member for Jobs, Skills and Community Safety, said: “It is important that businesses feel supported during these unprecedented times. But equally it is vital they also do their bit to limit the spread of the virus.
“The council does not set out to hinder businesses or issue warning letters but if we find a premises is breaking the rules we will not hesitate to take action.
“Everyone in Lambeth is looking forward to the gradual lifting of restrictions in the coming months but we cannot allow any activities that may jeopardise the health of others.
“Our message to residents is clear – stay at home unless you have to go to work, get tested and stick to the rules to protect your friends, family and neighbours.”
