Court grants extension of shop Closure Order

The three-month extension, granted by Teesside Magistrates, followed an application by Hartlepool Borough Council’s Trading Standards Team relating to the retail premises, Qwidz In, at 29 Murray Street.

The court was told that the extension of the order - originally granted on 10th October last year - was necessary to prevent the possible reoccupation of the premises and a recurrence of criminal activity.

29 Murray Street

Councillor Karen Oliver, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Neighbourhood Services Committee, said: “Despite the on-going issue of those involved in illegal sales re-locating to alternative premises, yesterday’s decision will take 29 Murray Street out of the equation for a further three months and prevent the resumption of criminal activity there.

“We need to keep reducing the options open to those intent on breaking the law. Action is being considered in relation to landlords who are complicit in allowing such individuals to occupy their premises and engage in illegal activity. Trading Standards are encouraging the landlord to work with us and take steps to try and prevent future problems, so hopefully there will be no further issues with these premises. We would urge all landlords to do the same.

“We are not prepared to tolerate such criminality here in Hartlepool, and it is important that as a community we come together to make that clear.

“The sale of illicit tobacco products is detrimental to the health of Hartlepool residents and it also undermines the sustainability of local businesses operating within the law.”

While the Closure Order is in force the only people permitted access are officers of the local authority and the owner of the premises with permission of the local authority.

Anyone who witnesses the order being breached should call Cleveland Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.