Fourth Cradley Heath mini-mart closed in crackdown to tackle the sale of illegal goods

A fourth shop in Cradley Heath has been ordered to close as part of a crackdown aimed at tackling the sale of illegal goods.

An order to close Top G's on the town’s High Street was granted at Walsall Magistrates Court on Monday (July 13).

The Trading Standards team at Sandwell Council successfully secured the two-month closure order after officers discovered illicit tobacco products being sold from the business premises.

It was the fourth shop in the town to be ordered to close following three successful applications for closure orders at other premises over the past few weeks.

The latest action, undertaken in partnership with West Midlands Police, means Top G's has had to cease trading and must remain closed for two months.

Councillor Bob Jones, cabinet member for environment and enforcement at Sandwell Council, said: "Securing our fourth closure order in just a few weeks sends a clear message that Sandwell Council will not tolerate illegal activity on our high streets.

"We are continuing to work closely with West Midlands Police and our partners to identify businesses that are breaking the law and take robust enforcement action.”

He added: "The vast majority of businesses across Sandwell make a positive contribution to our communities and local economy. Our focus is on protecting those legitimate traders, supporting residents and ensuring our town centres remain safe, welcoming and vibrant places for everyone.

"We will continue using every tool available to disrupt criminal activity and hold those responsible to account."

The council said tackling criminal and anti-social behaviour is a key priority for the authority. It has called for stronger powers for local authorities and is also backing Government plans to extend the maximum duration of closure orders from three months to 12 months under the Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.