A shop in Cradley Heath has been forced to close for two months after trading standards officers discovered it was selling illicit tobacco, Sandwell Council has confirmed.
Closure Order Issued at Walsall Magistrates Court
Top G's on High Street was found to be selling illegal goods during a joint operation by Sandwell Council and West Midlands Police. The closure order was granted at Walsall Magistrates Court on Monday, July 13, and the shop must remain shut until September 13, 2026.
This marks the fourth closure order issued to a shop in Cradley Heath in recent weeks, highlighting a targeted crackdown on illegal tobacco sales in the area.
Council and Police Collaboration
Cllr Bob Jones, Sandwell Council's Cabinet Member for Environment and Enforcement, said: "Securing our fourth Closure Order in just a few weeks sends a clear message that Sandwell Council will not tolerate illegal activity on our high streets. We are continuing to work closely with West Midlands Police and our partners to identify businesses that are breaking the law and take robust enforcement action."
He added: "The vast majority of businesses across Sandwell make a positive contribution to our communities and local economy. Our focus is on protecting those legitimate traders, supporting residents and ensuring our town centres remain safe, welcoming and vibrant places for everyone. We will continue using every tool available to disrupt criminal activity and hold those responsible to account."
Call for Stronger Powers
A council spokesperson said the authority is calling for stronger powers for local authorities and supports Government proposals to extend the maximum duration of closure orders from three months to 12 months under the Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.
The spokesperson continued: "Tackling criminal and anti-social behaviour remains a key priority for Sandwell Council, with officers continuing to work alongside police and other agencies to gather intelligence, investigate concerns and take enforcement action where necessary. Further applications to close other shops will be pursued in the coming weeks."
Health Impact of Illicit Tobacco
Sandwell Council is also committed to tackling the sale of illicit tobacco. Removing cheap and counterfeit cigarettes from the market is an important part of the council's work to support people to stop smoking, reducing health risks and associated costs to the NHS.
