HALTON Trading Standards has temporarily closed a Widnes discount shop following the persistent linking of anti-social behaviour and criminality to the premises.
The shop, Discount Store, of 65-67 Albert Road, will stay closed until midnight on January 27.
This comes after Warrington Magistrates Court granted a Closure Order following persistent anti-social behaviour, and criminality linked to the sale of illegal tobacco.
Halton Borough Council Trading Standards and Cheshire Police worked in partnership and the premises were closed on Monday October 26, as part of Operation Machinize.
This is an ongoing National Crime Agency coordinated project intended to tackle money laundering and criminal use of cash-intensive high street businesses.
Trading Standards and Cheshire Police held a short investigation, which uncovered tactics designed to avoid detection, including concealed “hides”, illegal tobacco products being concealed on individuals, and stored in vehicles positioned near to the premises.
There were repeated attempts to disrupt the activity, and warnings were issued to those involved, however these continued to be ignored.
The court heard evidence from officers involved in the investigation and was satisfied that a Closure Order was necessary to prevent further nuisance and disorder.
A spokesperson for Halton Trading Standards said: “The operators of this premises went to considerable lengths to conceal their activities but, through joint working and persistence, Trading Standards and the police were able to gather the evidence needed to bring this matter before the court.
“The closure will help protect local communities from the crime and anti-social behaviour associated with the illicit tobacco trade.
“A criminal investigation is also continuing, and all enforcement options remain open at this stage, in addition to the Closure Order.
“We know that when one premises closes, another quickly opens to try and continue to evade the law.
“Let this be a warning — we will be increasing our activity and intelligence in the area, and any attempts to continue the sale of illegal tobacco will be swiftly acted upon, and further enforcement activity and Closure Orders will be considered without delay.”
Cllr Dave Thompson, the Council’s portfolio holder for Communities & Neighbourhoods, added:
“The sale of illegal tobacco is a real concern, and this Closure Order sends a clear message this criminal activity will not be tolerated.
"I would encourage residents and businesses to continue to report any illegal activity, and this can be done anonymously.
“The closure of this premises is thanks to the intelligence received and demonstrates we will act swiftly and take the appropriate action needed to protect the people of Halton from the harm of illegal tobacco.”
Any illegal activity can be reported, anonymously if required, via Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.
Alternatively, any specific information relating to the sale of illicit cigarettes or alcohol in Halton can be reported to the Halton Trading Standards Hotline for Alcohol and Tobacco on 0151 511 8787.
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