Wolverhampton's Kazbar stops selling alcohol after police visit
A bar and grill in Wolverhampton has stopped selling takeaway alcohol after being visited by police and council officers.
Kazbar Bar and Grill in Wolverhampton was visited and warned on Friday after reports of people drinking on the premises.
But owner Kaz Shakham said there was nobody inside the bar eating or drinking at any time, and a customer had instead walked 50 yards outside to drink beer he bought from the bar.
Businesses are allowed to sell takeaway food and drink under the coronavirus restrictions but nothing can be consumed on the premises, inside or outside.
The business, on Graiseley Row, has been served with a prohibition notice for operating during the pandemic and putting customers at risk.
The council said it would call for Kazbar's licence to be reviewed.
Mr Shakham said: "We were allowed to sell alcohol in closed containers, and one customer took it over the road a good 50 yards from the pub.
"I didn't see but the police did and said he wasn't allowed to eat or drink on the premises or surrounding areas.
"We have signs everywhere saying takeaway only. And no-one was eating or drinking inside the premises. I've had a bit of backlash because of this now.
"We're still doing takeaway as normal - but we have stopped selling beer for now."
Councillor Steve Evans, the council's cabinet member for city environment, said: “As a council, we take a zero-tolerance approach to those who flout the rules and put others at risk during such uncertain times.
“It is not acceptable for businesses to be ignoring advice set out by the Government that has been put in place to protect the public from the virus.
"I’m pleased to see most businesses are acting responsibly and abiding by the rules and listening to government advice.
"I would like to thank all officers who are working to protect the public by clamping down on those who are selfishly putting customers and their staff at risk."
