Taunton legal highs shop to remain closed after owner loses appeal

Lawyers for shop owner Simon Tomlin argued the closure order was unnecessary and disproportionate

The owner of a shop selling legal highs in Taunton has lost an appeal to get it reopened following its closure by magistrates.

Taunton magistrates had granted an application for police to close Hush in Bridge Street for three months under anti-social behaviour powers.

Police said it was responsible for serious disorder in the town.

Owner Simon Tomlin appealed against the closure order at the higher crown court but the appeal was dismissed.

Last year, Taunton Deane councillors voted unanimously to ban the sale of the substances in premises rented from the authority.