Havering Council has issued two businesses with fines totalling £1,200 after they were found breaking Covid 19 regulations.
The owner of De Quilox Lounge and Bar, Romford was issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) of £200.
This was after the Council’s Public Protection and Enforcement officers were obstructed when trying to enter the venue.
A fine of £1,000 was given to the owners of the Lefke Restaurant and Bar, Upminster.
They had allowed dancing to take place on the premises when it was not could not take place under the restrictions at the time of the visits.
Councillor Viddy Persaud, Havering’s Cabinet Member for Public Protection and Safety, said:
“Our officers are working extremely hard to support businesses to help them keep Covid 19 secure, remain open and welcome customers in a safe and healthy environment.
“What we will not accept is the prevention of our officers performing their duties of inspection.
"Many of these are reported to us by residents.
“Where businesses flout the rules, we will take strong enforcement action including using FPNs and if necessary taking legal proceedings.
“We take this extremely seriously and we all need to do our bit to remain safe.
“We encourage anyone who finds a business not doing their bit to report it to us and we will not hesitate to investigate. "
To report a Covid 19 related concern involving a business, residents can call 01708 432777.”
The Council’s Public Protection and Enforcement teams have carried out nearly 4,000 face-to-face visits to businesses during the pandemic so far.
This is to make sure they are supported and comply with Covid 19 rules.
The Council found 83 percent of businesses are compliant and follow up visits have been arranged for businesses who don’t meet the grade.
Where necessary, the team will take enforcement action against those who do not comply, with the support of the Metropolitan Police.