A CEREDIGION pub has been closed down over breach of coronavirus regulations.

A closure notice was served on the Ffostrasol Arms in Ffostrasol, Llandysul yesterday evening (October 15) by public protection officers due to continuing non-compliance with the coronavirus rules.

An improvement notice had previously been served on the premises by Ceredigion County Council, but it was established that further contraventions of the regulations had been identified and in order to protect the public, a decision was made to close the premises.

The Ffostrasol Arms will remain closed until it can demonstrate it has made improvements and meets the requirements of the coronavirus regulations.

Ceredigion County Council, supported by Dyfed-Powys Police, continue to step up their enforcement of businesses that are failing to keep their customers safe and to ensure that Covid-19 cases do not increase in the county.

A council statement said: “There is growing evidence across the country that where there are insufficient controls in pubs, clubs and bars, that these premises increase the risk of Covid-19 spreading in the community.

“The council will issue further closure notices where necessary to ensure compliance with the regulations. The council will act decisively if any business is found guilty of breaking Covid-19 regulations.

“In the interest of public safety, all businesses need to ensure that they are compliant with the regulations at all times.

“Improvement notices are also being served on premises advising them to take action or face similar consequences. However, the council is pleased to see how many businesses are operating well to provide a safe environment for their customers.

“Many of those visited in recent weeks have made further improvements following the advice of the council’s public protection team.”

During the compliance visits, officers are checking that businesses are complying with the Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions)(No.2) (Wales) Regulations 2020, and have the power to close, force improvements of review the premises licence or club premises certificate.

All pubs and clubs must ensure that:

  • A Test, Trace, Protect system is in place to accurately record all visits to the premises so that customers can be easily contacted in the event of a positive case linked to the venue. This includes customers’ name and telephone number.
  • Social distancing of 2 metres is maintained, with adequate signage, distance between tables and seating, and procedures for managing walkways and toilet areas.
  • All premises must provide table service only i.e. no ordering at the bar.
  • All food and drink must be consumed at tables.
  • Customers are not drinking and standing at the bar.
  • Customers are not drinking alcohol while standing, unless they are standing at a tall table - in all other instances they must be seated.
  • There is no live music, and that recorded music is only played at a low background level.
  • Hospitality businesses, including pubs, cafes, restaurants and casinos, to close at 10pm.

The Ffostrasol Arms closure notice came into force yesterday (October 15) at 4.40pm.