South Yorkshire garden centre faces legal action for flouting lockdown rules

Following a complaint, an investigation by Barnsley Council found the garden centre was continuing to open, despite being classed as non-essential.

Following warnings and advice, the company maintained its operation, and regulatory services served the business a legal notice.

If the business continues to operate outside of the regulations now the notice has been served, they will face prosecution.

Sir Steve Houghton, council leader, said: “While the majority of businesses in Barnsley are complying with the regulations, it is disappointing that a small number are choosing to ignore the threat of coronavirus.

“We appreciate this is a difficult time for businesses, but the regulations were brought in to respond to the serious and imminent threat coronavirus poses to public health.”

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