Posted on: Monday 27 November 2023
A shop in Pontypool town centre has been ordered to close for three months.
Following allegations received about ‘Pontypool Shop’ located at 6 Commercial Street, Pontypool, officers from the Council’s Trading Standards team used powers under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 to apply for a closure order to be granted.
Allegations were received that the premises was involved in the sale of illegal and illicit tobacco products and illegal vapes.
Information was also received alleging that the premises were selling illegal vapes to school aged children.
On Monday 20 November 2023, a hearing took place at Newport Magistrates Court. After hearing evidence from Council officers, the Court granted the order to prevent criminal behaviour and anti-social behaviour occurring within the area.
Access to the premises is prohibited at all times during which the closure order is in place, except by prior arrangement and specific written agreement with the Council.
Breaching a closure order is a criminal offence, carrying a penalty of imprisonment for a period of three months or an unlimited fine, or both.
Councillor Mandy Owen, Executive Member for the Environment said: “A closure order is a fast and flexible power that can be used by Trading Standards teams to close premises which are being used, or likely to be used, to commit nuisance or disorder.
“Illegal tobacco and vapes have been found to contain a range of harmful chemicals which could be damaging to a person’s health, making them very dangerous.
“The Council will take appropriate action to protect the public when allegations are received. “
Protecting children, as well as the wider community, from harmful substances and products supports the Council’s County Plan by championing children, young people and families, so they can thrive. Read more about the County Plan.
Anyone with information about the sale of illegal tobacco or vapes can contact the Torfaen Trading Standards team on 01633 647623 or e-mail trading.standards@torfaen.gov.uk
Further information about trading standards can be found here