A CLOSURE order has been granted against a business premises in a Devon town after a hearing at Newton Abbot Magistrates’ Court.

Police officers in Paignton closed the business premises, on Torquay Road, ‘to protect people from potential exploitation or coercive practice’.

The closure order was granted on June 18 and is in place for three months.

Activity at the business was believed to present a risk of exploitation and officers are pleased at the outcome of the hearing, which took place at Newton Abbot Magistrates’ Court.

Inspector Pete Giesens said: “’Police became aware that the premises were not being used for legitimate purposes and this closure order is designed to prevent a business operating where there is a risk of exploitation.’

‘Visitors going to an address where neighbours were affected by the behaviour of those working there, as well as their visitors.

‘The order means that access is prohibited and anyone trying to gain entry to the premises and failing to comply with the closure order is committing an offence and liable to time in prison or a fine or both.

‘We want to reassure those living and working in the Paignton area that we do listen to concerns and take action where necessary.

‘We would like to thank the community for reporting information to us about a number of issues around the town.’