East Devon businesses 'doing their utmost to comply' with new COVID regulations

Businesses across Devon have by-and-large been compliant with the new COVID rules in place as of April 12.

In step two of the government's roadmap out of lockdown, non-essential retail, personal care premises such as hairdressers and nail salons, outdoor hospitality venues, and self-contained accommodation such as campsites and holiday lets were allowed to reopen.

While a handful of complaints about businesses operating outside of the new guidelines have been made to councils across Devon, no formal action has been taken against any businesses.

Those named in complaints had accepted errors had been made, often due to confusion over the specifics of the legislation.

One Airbnb flat was operating when it should not have been because it shared an entrance, stairwell and corridor with other residents, and as a result bookings until May 17 have been cancelled.

Several outdoor shelters erected at pubs have also had to be altered as they were not complying with regulation that they had to be 50 per cent open to qualify as outdoors.

A spokesperson for East Devon District Council said: "There have been various instances but not many directly related to Step 2, which began on April 12.

"Our Covid Compliance Officers have been in contact with an Airbnb flat that had been operating, but because it shared an entrance, stairwell and corridor with other residents, it shouldn't have been.

"Following advice, guidance and help from our officers the host has now cancelled all bookings until May 17.

"We have also offered advice and guidance to a very small number of pubs and cafés which had outside marquees that had more than the maximum, 50 per cent of the sidewalls, closed.

"On the whole most businesses are doing their utmost to comply. Where advice has been given, it has been accepted and there has been no need for any further measures or penalties."

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