On 13 June 2025, Luton Magistrate’s Court approved a three-month closure order for L&B Market, located at 5a North Street, Leighton Buzzard LU7 1EN. 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.
During visits on 13 June 2025 officers seized a total of 451 vapes, 758 cigarette packets, and 175 tobacco pouches with the help of sniffer dog Maustin.
Councillor John Baker, our Executive Member responsible for public protection, said:
This action sends a strong message that we will not tolerate the sale of illegal or harmful products in our communities. Businesses that break the law and put young people at risk have no place in Central Bedfordshire.
We’re grateful to residents and local partners who helped us gather the evidence needed to take strong enforcement action, and we will continue working together to keep our neighbourhoods safe.