Authorised enforcement officers have the ability to serve closure notices (Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notices or HEPNs) where they consider that there is an “imminent risk of injury to health”.

The effect of these notices is to close a premises to give the officer time to apply to the court for a more long-term closure order.  Once served, the officer has three days to approach the magistrates court for an order to continue the closure and at least one day of notice must be given if they intend to do this.

Our food solicitors have experience of dealing with HEPNs and representing in court where applications are made for an order.  If you have been served with a notice, please contact us for advice.  We offer a short period of free advice or a fixed fee arrangement for initial consultations.