BUSINESSES across the district are being warned that they must follow Government guidelines to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Bradford Council has issued the message after reports some premises are flouting the regulations and failing to ensure they are Covid-19 secure.

Council staff and police officers are visiting businesses, including pubs and restaurants, to ensure they are aware of the guidelines and adhering to them.

The business is asked to show it has carried out a Covid-19 risk assessment and that any necessary controls have been implemented.

Where requirements aren’t being met, advice will be issued and further visits made.

Any business continuing to contravene the rules could be served with a prohibition notice and even shut down.

In a recent seven-day period, 1,128 visits were made. Some businesses were issued with prohibition notices and there are currently cases going through the court system for failure to fulfil legal obligations.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, the council’s executive member for healthy people and places, said: “The aim is to help businesses operate within the guidelines.

“If however we hear that they have disregarded the guidance and are flouting the law, we will have no option but to take enforcement action.

“Coronavirus is still here and infection rates are rising across the district. Businesses have to play their part in helping to prevent the virus from spreading further by adhering to the guidelines.

“Members of the public can also help by wearing face coverings when required and ensuring they stay two metres apart when queuing outside businesses.”