Smokefree Lancaster - two years on
Businesses praised for smooth introduction of new laws
Lancaster City Council has thanked businesses and residents for their help in the smooth introduction of smokefree legislation.
It is now two years since the city council, along with every other council in England, helped to introduce new laws on smoking in public places.
In the Lancaster district the introduction of the new laws has gone smoothly and has been embraced by both businesses and the public.
The atmosphere in pubs, clubs and restaurants is cleaner, particularly for staff who are at far less risk of suffering from the numerous effects of passive smoking.
Many businesses have used the opportunity to develop their services and the council has had to prosecute just one business in two years – a landlady who allowed smoking in her pub.
Coun David Kerr, Cabinet member for environmental health, said: “Smokefree legislation has been a huge success locally and has resulted in a cleaner and healthier environment in workplaces and public spaces.
“I’d like to thank all those businesses that have embraced the change and worked with us to ensure the smooth introduction of the new laws.”
One downside of the new legislation has been an increase in smoking related litter on the streets.
The council is working with businesses to tackle this problem and will issue fixed penalties to smokers where necessary.
Date Updated: 03/07/09