Council enforcement officers are still finding non-essential businesses that have failed to close - three weeks after the lockdown was introduced.

This weekend, Waltham Forest Council enforcement officers shut down two barbers that were still operating in the Leyton area.

Another business in Forest Road, Walthamstow was also shut down, as the council reminds owners that only those deemed essential are allowed to stay open.

Government guidance states that “hairdressers, barbers, beauty and nail salons, including piercing and tattoo parlours” should all close, with no exceptions offered.

Small businesses can apply to Waltham Forest Council for a grant to help financially support them during the lockdown.

In neighbouring Redbridge, the council has also asked residents to report any non-essential businesses that have failed to close on their website.

While markets selling food are one of the businesses permitted to remain open, both councils took the decision to close most of their boroughs’ markets after significant backlash from the public.

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