Trader 'up to his old tricks' - again

Solar glass panels

A trader who was forced by Rochdale Council to make a legal promise to stop trading illegally, and make refunds where requested by customers, is again causing concern to customers.

John Hallisey, previously of Simply Solar and then SPWEC, has set up another company 'Impact Renewables'. The company website states his office is in Leeds but it is understood this is a 'virtual office' and Hallisey is still trading from 858a Manchester Road, Castleton, the same address he traded from as Simply Solar and then SPWEC.

Mr Hallisey advertises in popular broadsheet newspapers such as The Guardian and The Independent, offering to supply and install solar panel systems. In good faith, customers pay deposits up front of between £500 and £1500, but then the company does not deliver the goods.

On heariing of the new company set up by Mr Hallisey, one aggreived customer said: "I believe people need to know this con man is up to his old tricks again ripping people off."

The Council investigated 30 complaints received over a six month period from customers up and down the country. It was decided that enough evidence had been collated to start legal proceedings against Simple Solar Ltd and its Director, Mr John Hallisey.

It was the first time the council had taken formal action under the Enterprise Act against a trader.