Leighton Buzzard shop shut down after repeated sale of illegal tobacco
Friday, 5 December 2025
On 2 December 2025, our Trading Standards Team closed L&B Market, 5a North Street, Leighton Buzzard LU7 1EF.
This follows the previous closure of the same business on 13 June 2025, for the continuous sale of illegal tobacco. This latest closure marks the third time the shop has been shut by enforcement action.
On 3 December 2025, Luton Magistrate's Court approved a three-month closure order. The order, which makes it a criminal offence to enter the premises, was granted in response to persistent concerns from residents, schools and businesses about the shop’s ongoing sale of illegal tobacco and vapes, including sales to minors over the past year. The decision was taken following information supplied by members of the public.
Councillor John Baker, our Executive Member responsible for public protection, said:
This closure sends a strong message that repeated criminal activity will not be tolerated in Central Bedfordshire. We are grateful to residents for reporting suspicious activity to the council, which supports our Trading Standards team take firm action. Illegal tobacco undermines legitimate businesses and poses real health risks, and we will continue to act robustly to protect the community.
If you suspect a business is selling unlawful tobacco or vape products, or supplying age-restricted products to minors, find out how to report it anonymously.