Wakefield restaurant fined for breaking lockdown rules

The district council said it had issued a £100 fine to a diner in the city last weekend for running an outdoor seating area for customers.

Restaurants are allowed to sell takeaway food at the moment, but are told to ensure customers can keep safely apart and not consume it on the premises.

The council said it would not reveal the identity of the restaurant concerned, but added it had received hundreds of complaints about businesses breaking the rules.

Coun Maureen Cummings, portfolio holder for communities, said: "Firstly, I would like to say thank you to all the residents and businesses that have complied with the restrictions during this incredibly challenging time.

"Unfortunately, there is a small minority of those that aren’t operating safely. This is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

"We want to reassure residents that we will act on any report of a businesses in breach of the restrictions and we will take action if necessary.

"The restrictions are there to help keep us all safe – including the businesses as well as residents. It is important that we follow the latest advice to help control the virus and save lives.”

The restaurant will only have to pay £50 if the fixed penalty notice is paid within 14 days.

Local Democracy Reporting Service