Corporate enforcement policy

8.1 The Council will provide advice, guidance and support on compliance matters as a first response in many cases where a positive regulatory or contractual outcome can be achieved. Formal advice may be made in the form of a warning or advisory letter to identify the remedial actions which need to be taken to secure compliance quickly and efficiently. The Council also recognises that many businesses and individuals will require a level of education and support to bring their activities in line with statutory and contractual requirements.

8.2 Officers will normally use this option where the potential impact of non-compliance is minor, there is reasonable confidence that the business or individual will take appropriate corrective action and where this is the first contact with them on the issue. As far as the law allows, officers will take account of the circumstances of the case and the conduct of the business or individual, when considering action.

8.3 Officers may provide written advice on good practice, industry guidance or technical information where there is a need for help in meeting requirements. However, issuing advice or warnings does not remove the necessity for the Council to serve formal notices in certain circumstances, to ensure that compliance is achieved within a prescribed period.