Dewsbury and Liversedge venues shut down for breaching Covid-19 regulations over weddings

Kirklees Council has ordered two banqueting halls in Dewsbury and a hotel in the Liversedge and Gomersal area to close.

After complaints by members of the public, the council visited these venues on a number of occasions alongside West Yorkshire Police.

The three venues were found to be holding wedding receptions for 50 to 150 people – breaching the Government’s national restriction of no more than 15 guests.

The necessary COVID-19 safety measures were also not being followed at each venue, with a lack of social distancing, especially at arrival and departure.

Councillor Rob Walker, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “Our work with West Yorkshire Police in visiting hospitality businesses across Kirklees has highlighted that the vast majority are doing all they can to keep people safe.

“However, we have also seen a small number of businesses that need to make urgent improvements.

“These three venues have been visited a number of times and have been given clear instructions to improve their compliance with the COVID-19 regulations. Unfortunately, this has not happened, and they will need to remain closed until they have put this right.

“We’re committed to supporting our hospitality industry through what has been an incredibly difficult time, but we all have to remember that public safety must be the priority. When this is put at risk, we will take action.”

Kirklees Council has been working closely with West Yorkshire Police in recent weeks, visiting more than 180 hospitality businesses in the borough to make sure they have the correct COVID-19 measures in place and are operating in line with new regulations.

The vast majority of premises visited have good controls in place to protect their customers and are going above and beyond the Government guidance.

There have been a small number of businesses where follow up actions were required, and the majority rectified the issues raised within a few days.

Councillor Walker added: “Our aim is to support local business by giving praise where due, providing advice when required, challenging poor practices and behaviour, and only taking stronger action where necessary.

“We’ve seen some remarkable examples of best practice, with many going above and beyond the Government’s COVID-19 guidance.

“It’s been a pleasure to work with local businesses on this and the vast majority are a credit to our collective effort to stop the spread of the virus.

“Remember, the best way to beat the virus is to wash your hands regularly, make sure you socially distance, avoid crowds, wear a face covering and get a test and isolate if you have symptoms.”