Cllr Joseph Ejiofor, Leader of Haringey Council, said: “I welcome the decision by the Highbury Corner court to issue a Closure Order.

“The highest daily number of positive Covid cases was recorded in the UK last week and we had to make it clear that everyone has to work together and follow the legislation put in place to contain the spread of the virus.

“I understand why the owner felt passionately about staying open, but the law is the law and it applies to everyone. It is not right for every other non-essential business, having had to close its doors and make a huge sacrifice, to then see another business remain open.

“Our enforcement officers did everything in their power from the very start to communicate with the owner of Zone Gym.  That included engaging, explaining and encouraging regarding the legislation that has been put in place.

“Enforcement is always our last resort but despite numerous visits to the premises, the owner refused to work with us, and we were forced to issue £77,000 of fixed penalty notices for breaches of the rules. Taking this matter to the courts showed that we were not prepared to risk the health of people across Haringey.

“I am pleased that the owner is now doing the right thing and has closed the gym. Staying as active as you can to look after your health and wellbeing is really important during this time, but it has to be done in the right way. I would be willing to discuss this with him in the future when all legal matters are concluded.

“Let me make this clear. The safety of our residents in Haringey will always remain our number one priority and if anyone refuses to abide by the law, we will be left with no choice but to take strong action.”