Licensed premises in Inverness warned to be extra vigilant after coronavirus spike in Aberdeen
Bars and restaurants in the Highlands have been warned to be stringent with anti-Covid measures following the bar-related spike in cases in Aberdeen.
Environmental health officers have been carrying out premises checks routinely and after receiving some complaints about individual businesses allegedly not following advice on social distancing and gathering track and trace information.
Lockdown restrictions have been reimposed in Aberdeen after a surge incases of Covid-19 there.
Gregor MacCormick, Highland Council's senior environmental officer said: "The environmental health service are aware of some concerns relating to licensed premises failing to properly implement effective Covid-19 controls.
"Depending on the nature of the concerns this may simply require some additional advice being provided regarding the premises' existing controls, or an officer undertaking a visit to conduct a review of the arrangements and, if necessary, taking any appropriate action to protect public health.
"It is vitally important that licensed premises follow the government Covid guidelines for the hospitality and tourism industry.
"Our service would also urge the public to play their part when visiting these establishments in complying with the arrangements."
The council has produced a guidance note for pubs and restaurants that is available here
A Scottish Government spokesman said that all restaurants and pubs are required to gather contact details from all customers, visitors and staff, and warned it will not hesitate to pass legislation if businesses are found to be failing to gather contact details for track and trace.
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