Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) is ramping up spot checks on businesses to ensure coronavirus restrictions are being followed during the second national lockdown.

The council has warned that firms breaching the regulations may face legal action, including fines of up to £10,000.

The country entered lockdown last Thursday and only essential businesses can continue to trade until December 2, when the lockdown is projected to end. Takeaways can also operate.

MBC chief executive Alison Broom said: "During lockdown we will undertake checks to ensure that business closures are being observed by the relevant businesses and that those who are open are following sector guidance.

"We and our partners across Kent are working to support businesses and provide the guidance they need to comply with the rules.

"In parallel, we are also increasing our spot checks to ensure a level playing field across different sectors.

"While our priority is to inform and encourage compliance, those breaching the regulations may face legal action, including fines of up to £10,000.”

Following the second lockdown being bought in, MBC wrote to businesses to thank them and remind them to comply with coronavirus restrictions to keep communities safe and well.

Ms Broom explained that although some sectors will now face a lockdown the council is positive that this will reinforce the borough's status in the Medium risk level once the area comes out after 28 days in the 3-tier definition.

Ms Broom said: “We all need to continue the focus and hard work that will reduce the spread of Covid-19 to protect both the lives and livelihoods of our residents.

“While most businesses are working hard to comply with their legal duties, we have had reports that some are not following the rules.

"This is not only illegal, but it puts all the hard work being done by those that are complying with the rules at risk.

"If cases of Covid-19 continue to rise, there is the real threat of further restrictions being imposed, which will harm the entire local economy.”

Council teams will carry out regular visits across Maidstone reminding businesses of social distancing rules and offering support with safety measures.

The checks made by council environment health officers will also be a chance for businesses to let MBC know what they may be finding difficult so that the team can try to help.

Ms Broom: “I would like once again, to thank everyone you for all their hard work at this difficult time, and urge all business owners to regularly check the government sites for updates to ensure they are up to date with the latest guidance as the regulations are subject to change.”

For the latest sector-by-sector guidance for businesses click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Maidstone