QUESTIONS have been asked why it took "so long" for enforcement to be made against a Southampton gym which refused to shut despite strict Covid laws.
On Tuesday, police officers finally raided and "secured" Spartans Gym in Millbank Street, despite the first breach being reported back during the November lockdown.
But, despite facing legal proceedings, the gym continued to operate, with the police reporting further breaches when the city entered Tier 4 on December 26, and December 28.
Now, leader of the council’s opposition Tory party, Dan Fitzhenry has asked why it took "so long" for enforcement action to be carried out.
He said: “The rules are rules and they are very clear for gyms which is that they must close both during the Tier 4 lockdown and now.
“Any breach should be enforced quickly and effectively.
“Why has this taken the council so long?
“They should have been quicker in enforcing the breach.”
As reported, Southampton City Council has confirmed that following the raid, ten people have been reported for summons and each was issued with a fixed penalty notice of £200.
Speaking about the closure, cabinet member for stronger communities, Cllr David Shields, said: “Along with our partners at Hampshire Constabulary we have taken decisive action to close Spartans to protect the health of our communities.
“While regular engagement with business owners is the council’s preferred route, given the extended offending and the refusal of those operating the gym to engage with either the police or council, closing the premises was both lawful and proportionate.”
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