January 2024
Abandoned vehicles
Environmental Protection Officers have been investigating reports of abandoned vehicles, which has led to a total of forty five vehicles being removed from the public highway. Of those vehicles, twenty nine were untaxed.
Health and Safety Action
West Bromwich – A complaint was received about noise from a generator at a retailer in West Bromwich. A visit was carried out and officers found that the generator was being used to provide electricity to 2 businesses. The generator had been installed following a visit from National Grid who had cut off the electrical supply in both premises due to non-payment. Officers found that the generator had been connected up unsafely to the distribution board and there were a number of exposed live electrical wiring throughout the business, which posed a risk of electric shock to staff. Prohibition notices were served to prevent the use of the electrical supply and the owner was required to carry out work to make the electrical system safe.
Food Hygiene Inspections Enforcement Action
A catering establishment in Smethwick was closed down for two days due to an imminent risk of injury to health from mice activity. The business was allowed to reopen once a deep clean had taken place and they had taken steps to rid the premises of mice.
Sona Foods Ltd and Traditional Authentic Foods Ltd
The company owner pleaded guilty to offences relating to the supply of unsafe food (in this case, milk not being listed on the nutritional information label) and traceability. Each of the two companies were fined £3,500 and ordered to pay victim surcharges of £190, along with full costs of £2,177. This total of £9,557, needs to be paid within six months, as enforced by the Court.
Street racer receives suspended prison sentence for racing in West Bromwich
A street racer was recently prosecuted, receiving a suspended prison sentence, linked to street racing. A final hearing about the Black Country street racing injunction is scheduled for February 2024.