A NUMBER of complaints have been made to Bolton Council about businesses not adhering to government guidance as lockdown restrictions are eased.

Since the beginning of July more than 32 complaints have been made to town hall chiefs about businesses not adhering to guidance ­— or trading when they shouldn’t be ­— leading to enforcement action having to be taken against those deemed to be putting the public at risk.

This included a chain vape shops that flouted rules by claiming that it was selling tinned food and toilet roll and was issued a prohibition notice ordering it to shut immediately at the end of May.

More than 2,000 letters have also been sent out from the start of this month by the council to non-essential businesses making sure they know the regulations for welcoming back customers.

Site visits, safety guidance and letters of advice are some of the ways the council has kept in regular contact with pubs, hairdressers, and retailers to keep them in line with government guidance.

The council’s executive cabinet member for environmental services regulation, Cllr Hilary Fairclough, said: “It is important to strike the right balance between kickstarting the local economy and keeping the public safe.

“I know this has been a frustrating and difficult time for businesses and we have been doing all we can to keep everyone informed so they can reopen safely when the time is right.

“Our regulatory and licensing teams have done an excellent job, providing up-to-date guidance and taking appropriate action against the tiny minority who have failed to follow the guidelines.

“As the lockdown eases, I look forward to many more businesses opening and thriving with the continued support of Bolton Council.”

Licensing officers have been working closely with Greater Manchester Police to ensure places were abiding by the rules.