Council uses powers to close shop next door to previous closure

An Ellesmere Port business has been closed by the Council for three months, next door to the shop that was closed earlier this month.

Cheshire West and Chester Council used closure powers as the shop was selling illegal vapes and tobacco products.

On Friday 21st November, Chester Magistrates Court granted a closure order under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 for the store at 29 Marina Drive, next door to Mini Market, 31 Marina Drive, that was closed in early November.

Intelligence relating to Ellesmere Port Mini Market and Convenience Store at number 31 Marina Drive dated back to 2021.  Complaints about the business included the sale of nicotine vapes to children. 

The business at 29 Marina Drive was an unoccupied shop which opened for trade approximately four hours after the Council served the closure order on number 31.

The shop at number 29 was selling the same vape and cigarette products and officers identified the same people working behind the till.  It was therefore believed to be a continuation of the set up at number 31.

The Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Neighbourhood Pride, Councillor Stuart Bingham said:

“In addition to the links to the other address, officers were also sold illegal tobacco products on one occasion and seized 2000 cigarettes and 149 vapes during a second visit.

“The Council has used its powers of closure to prevent the behaviour continuing, to protect our communities.

“The supply of illegal tobacco and vapes supports other criminal activity and has many damaging effects on our local communities, as well as increased health risks.  People may be tempted by the cheap price tag, but it's worth considering the great cost to your health, safety and community.”

The Council and its partner Brio Leisure have a stop smoking service for anyone in the borough who needs support.  The ‘Go Smokefree’ service allows residents to self-refer for support to quit smoking, giving them access to 12 weeks of FREE Nicotine Replacement Therapy and unlimited behavioural support for as long as they feel they need. One-to-one support is available in one of 18 venues across the borough.

Additionally, residents can be supported by telephone, text, or Brio’s Facebook page.

For more information and support visit: 

www.cheshirechangehub.org

email at: 

hello@cheshirechangehub.org 

or call on:

0300 777 0033