A PARTY venue has been shut down for breaking lockdown rules.

Grey Area Party Room, in Heywood,  has been forced to close for one one month after evidence came to light that it was ignoring Covid-19 regulations.

Investigations by the police and licensing officials found it was being hired out for functions and parties despite these activities currently being banned.

The owners of the business have admitted that the premises were open and allowing large gatherings to take place.

A closure direction issued by the council prevents it from reopening until September 7.

Cllr Sara Rowbotham, cabinet member for health and wellbeing at Rochdale Council, has urged businesses and residents  to follow the lockdown rules.

She said: “Given the high rates of cases in our borough it is more important than ever that everyone plays their part in ensuring we act responsibly to stop the spread of coronavirus.

“Thanks to excellent partnership working with GMP we are taking action against anyone who shows blatant disregard for the safety of our residents.”

Complaints about the venue, which also has a party bus, breaching lockdown rules were first made in May 2020.

The council and police  visited and contacted the business in June and July to provide advice and guidance about compliance with Covid-19 regulations. 

The fire service also required a risk assessment which identified fire safety risks that needed to be immediately addressed.

But despite several interventions another party was reported on Saturday, August 1 and the closure direction was served. The fire safety issues had also not been dealt with.

Insp Andrew Fern said the police had been working closely with the council to offer support and protect people in Heywood

“With current restrictions in place across the whole of Greater Manchester, we need to ensure that the safety of our communities is our top priority,” he said.

“We will continue to engage, explain and encourage the public to comply with the measures but those who continue to flout the rules will face enforcement action.”