City shops shut down over illegal trade

Shops in Bradford that have been linked to criminal activity, including sales of nitrous oxide, have been temporarily shut down.

Jimmy's, Great Horton Road Shop and a nearby storeroom were all found to be involved in the sale of nitrous oxide, illegal and counterfeit alcohol and cigarettes, as well as wider anti-social behaviour, Bradford Council said.

Three-month closure notices have been granted for each of the premises.

At the same time, police have requested a review of the licence for Jimmy's which if successful means it will be permanently stripped of its ability to sell alcohol.

The council first issued 24-hour closure notices on 20 August under anti-social behaviour legislation, before the case was taken to Kirklees Magistrates' Court.

Magistrates then agreed to impose full three-month closure orders at Jimmy's at Under Croft, 2 Laisteridge Lane and on 99 Great Horton Road.

Great Horton Road Shop at number 97 will also remain closed until 27 November, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Councillor Ian Walker, Bradford Council's Executive Member for Neighbourhoods and Communities, said: "It is vital for all our communities that people are able to buy goods in shops with confidence and that we tackle anti-social behaviour."

Sgt Ceri Lloyd, of Bradford District Neighbourhood Support Team, said: "We have identified several issues with the premises including the illegal sale and use of nitrous oxide, drug use and the sale of illegal and counterfeit alcohol, cigarettes and tobacco.

"I hope this closure order reassures residents that we will seek to use all available powers to protect our communities."

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