A POPULAR holiday park which failed to comply with the coronavirus restrictions has had its bar and entertainment area closed.

Action was taken against Crimdon Dene Caravan Park, between Peterlee and Hartlepool, following a serious breach of restrictions aimed at preventing the further spread of the virus.

Durham County Council’s community protection officers found households mixing, customers standing, and a lack of social distancing being observed.

The caravan park closure relates to the arcade, bar and entertainment areas and will have to remain closed until it can prove it can operate in a safe way.

Joanne Waller, the council’s head of community protection services, said: “It is in the interest of public safety that every venue in County Durham follows the latest coronavirus restrictions.

“The significant rise in cases in the region must be addressed and this will only happen if everybody, premises and the public, abides by the rules.

“We hope that direction orders send a clear message that we will continue to take action against businesses which are failing to comply with the legislation and will do so until they can prove that they can operate safely, in the best interest of their staff and customers.

“Thankfully, the vast majority of premises across County Durham are complying with the measures.

“We would like to thank them for their support in keeping people safe during these challenging times and will continue to offer help and advice to ensure they are able to stay open.”

A spokesperson for Crimdon Dene Holiday Park confirmed the bar area was closed.

He said: "Unfortunately, we have had to close our Crimdon Dene show bar and arcade from 6pm on October 9 until October 16.

"Our Boathouse bar and restaurant remain open and we are disappointed that our guests and holiday home owners could face inconvenience as a result.

“We are in discussions with council officials and await the full details of their report to better understand where their concerns lie.”