Smoke free Wandsworth
Wandsworth goes smoke free
By now you've probably heard that smoking will be banned in all public places from July 1.
But did you know that, as well as in pubs and clubs, you won't be allowed to light up in communal areas outside your own home.
The Government ban covers all areas that are 'substantially enclosed' and are used by people from more than one house or flat, or are used as places of work, for example by cleaners or repairs staff.
So, for example, lifts, entrance foyers, stairwells, corridors or any other shared areas, such as communal kitchens or laundries in sheltered accommodation will all be included.
It's not just indoor areas that are affected, 'substantially enclosed' means outdoor areas such as roofed corridors. People living in flats and maisonettes will be most affected, but it also covers other types of property with communal areas, such as sheltered housing and temporary accommodation.
So, even if you don't go to the pub or work in an office, if you live in accommodation with any shared areas, the ban will affect you and you need to know how you can stay within the law.
Wandsworth Council will be putting up 'no smoking' signs in all the areas affected so tenants and leaseholders will have no excuse to break the law.
If you are caught lighting up in a prohibited area, the matter will be referred to environmental services. You will be reminded that you are committing an offence and asked to stop. If you continue to flout the law, you may get a fixed penalty notice.
