Businesses Give Positive Response to Smokefree Laws

17 July 2007

Swindon Borough Council has carried out 200 advisory visits to business premises since new smoke free laws came into force on 1 July.

A further 300 visits are planned, with the aim of helping businesses to understand the new legislation.

Cllr David Wren, Cabinet Member for Local Environment, said: "I’ve been encouraged by the positive response from businesses so far during these visits. In some cases businesses told us their trade had even increased."

Nearly three quarters of the population are non-smokers and many claimed they would be more inclined to eat out once the smoke free laws came into force.

Cllr Wren would like to encourage residents and visitors to show support for the smoke free transition.

He said: "Nearly all enclosed public places and workplaces are now smoke free - many making the change for the first time ever. Customers no longer have to endure their clothes and hair reeking of smoke but can simply enjoy a ‘pint and a bite’. We have some great places to socialise in Swindon and now is a really good time to support our local businesses and enjoy the smoke free atmosphere."

Councils across the country have received funding from the Government’s Department for Health to help inform businesses and residents about the new laws. Swindon Borough Council received £95,000 which was used to hold seminars, pay for advertising and to create free information packs.

The council also purchased 8,000 cigarette butt pouches which are being distributed to businesses. These will be given to customers smoking outdoors to help keep the streets litter free.