Crackdown on Birmingham restaurant linked to five Covid-19 cases
A Moseley restaurant has been hit with a Direction Order from Birmingham City Council after it was found to be breaching Covid-19 guidelines.
The Tipu Sultan venue on Alcester Road is the first to receive the warning in the city. It comes after the restaurant was linked to five cases of Covid-19 in a month and follows around 25 reports of events being held at the premises with significantly more people than the government guidance of a maximum of 30 in any gathering.
The inspection also found that safety measures detailed within the restaurants risk assessment had not been implemented all of the time, and that social distancing in the queue for entry and in waiting areas of the restaurant had not being maintained or controlled in an acceptable manner.
Head of Environmental Health, Mark Croxford said: “Numerous reports have been made to the council, the police and local councillors that events are being held at Tipu Sultan with significantly more people than the government guidance of a maximum of 30 in any one party.
“As a result, at least five confirmed cases of Coronavirus have been linked to the premises over a period of four weeks. A Direction Order was necessary in order to protect against the spread of coronavirus.
I look forward to the Tipu Sultan making the required changes so that their staff and customers can have a more positive, safer experience.”
In response, the owners of the resturant issued a statement saying: “Following government guidelines we endeavour to provide a safe dining environment and would ask you to comply with social distancing measures of a minimum of 1 metre with other dining guests.
“We wish you a joyful and safe dining experience. If you require any further clarifi cation or guidance please do not hestitate to seek advice from one of restaurant representatives.
“Look after yourselves and each other.”
The Direction Order will come in to effect on Saturday (29 August), and stipulates that the restaurant must restrict entry into the premises; not allow bookings of more than 30 people, ensuring large parties are given a separate dining area; implement a booking system to prevent people from queuing outside; and use the booking system to allow time for tables to be thoroughly cleansed.
The Direction Order will be kept under regular review. Failure to comply with a Direction Order may result in a Fixed Penalty Notice or a new direction closing the premises being issued.
New powers from government means that the council and police may investigate reports of business premises which are failing to comply with Covid-secure risk assessments and, if necessary, reduce the numbers of people present, restrict numbers in areas of the premises or close the premises.
