NO FORMAL action has so far been taken against any bar or pub in Basingstoke and Deane for not following Covid-19 guidelines, the borough council has confirmed.

As previously reported, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council said it had received complaints about five licensed premises in the borough regarding Covid-19 regulations such as social distancing.

However, it said it was unable to provide any further details whilst they were “under investigation”.

It has now confirmed that the council’s licensing team has dealt with the venues, all of which were visited or contacted.

“In all cases the premises have been co-operative and worked positively with licensing staff to resolve any issues,” a council spokesperson said, adding: “As a result, no formal action has been required and it would not be fair, under these circumstances, to provide further details.

“The priority for all premises is the safety of their customers. The often rapidly changing government guidance has proved challenging for all parties, so it is critical that we continue to support businesses to allow them to operate safely.”

The spokesperson said that ultimately it is the responsibility of businesses to undertake their own risk assessments and follow them.

However, they warned that closing venues remains an option if they fail to comply with government regulations for Covid-19, adding: “We have a staged enforcement approach and will, if necessary, take formal action up to closing premises. Thus far we have been able to resolve all matters informally.”

Members of the public can make an online complaint regarding a licensed premises in the borough on the council website at https://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/licensing-complaint.