Three shops close over illegal sales

Three more Spalding shops have been served closure orders on suspicion of selling illegal cigarettes and vapes.

Easy Shop in Station Street, Europe Store in Holbeach Road and Nasza Biedronka in Sheep Market were given the maximum three-month closures that can be implemented by Lincoln Magistrates last week.
Lincolnshire Police said it was “due to alleged persistent sale of illicit cigarettes and illegal vapes” and came after South Holland’s Neighbourhood Policing Team had been working with Trading Standards.
Notices on the shops put up a week before the closures stated the court action had come about as police officers felt the use of the premises has resulted ‘in nuisance to members of the public’ or ‘disorder’ related to its use.
It means five shops in the town are currently closed due to orders.
In August Euro Star Shop in New Road and Spalding Express Convenience Store on Commercial Road were also subject to closure orders.
It follows new working practices between Lincolnshire Police and Trading Standards.
The police can now carry out the prosecutions which both authorities say means they’re coming through quicker.
Deputy leader for South Holland District Council and portfolio holder for Spalding town improvement Coun Gary Taylor said: “It’s good to see enforcement action is taking place.
“It’s been rumoured and speculated that many of these places have been carrying out illegal activities and it’s great evidence is being gathered and there’s action being taken against those where there’s accusations of flouting the law.
“There’s a concern over empty shops and the number of shops with closure orders seems to be adding up.
“We do not want empty shops.
“The hope is these business work with the authorities and re-open legally, improve their image and make their businesses welcoming for all members of the public,”
The Voice approached Lincolnshire County Council, which oversees Trading Standards locally, for a comment but had not received one at the time of going to press.