The council has closed down another Chester business after it was found to be selling illegal vapes and tobacco.

Broughton's Chester Local Store will remain closed until 5 May 2026, following a closure order secured by Cheshire West and Chester Council.

As the fifth premises closed by the council in recent months, the shop was found to be selling illegal vapes and tobacco products.

Last week, trading standards officers joined Cheshire Police as they visited seven businesses across the borough, as part of Operation Crossbow. 

Illegal products, including 21,060 cigarettes, 5.6kg tobacco and 122 vapes, were seized. It was following this operation that the closure notice was served on Chester Local Store.

Chester Magistrates Court granted the closure order under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

Information relating to previous seizures and covert test purchases was presented in court to show the persistent sale of illicit cigarettes and vapes.

Cllr Stuart Bingham said: "The supply of illegal tobacco continues to blight our communities. Although people may like the idea of cheap cigarettes and vapes, the risk to health are simply not worth the risk.

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"These businesses are putting our communities at risk. They are exploiting our residents for personal gain and are often selling to children. 

"The council will do everything in its power to find these businesses and close them down. If you have information about a business that is selling illegal products or selling to children, please get in touch with Trading Standards and we will follow it up."

The Council and its partner Brio Leisure have a stop smoking service for anyone in the borough who needs support. 

The 'Go Smokefree' service allows residents to self-refer for support to quit smoking, giving them access to 12 weeks of FREE Nicotine Replacement Therapy and unlimited behavioural support for as long as they feel they need. One-to-one support is available in one of 18 venues across the borough.

Additionally, residents can be supported by telephone, text, or Brio's Facebook page.

For more information and support visit www.cheshirechangehub.org, email at [email protected] or call on 0300 777 0033.