Birmingham Magistrates' Court granted a hygiene emergency prohibition order on Monday, August 24, closing Al-Aqsa Halal Meat at 80 Showell Green Lane, Sparkhill, after council inspectors discovered an active infestation of cockroaches and mouse droppings on the premises.
The court action followed an inspection on August 18, 2026, triggered by concerns raised during a separate inspection of a nearby premises. The order was issued due to "an imminent risk of injury to health," and the shop's shutters were pulled down in accordance with the closure.
Inspection findings and immediate action
A spokesperson for Birmingham City Council said: "On August 18, 2026, an inspection took place of Al-Aqsa Halal Meat, 80 Showell Green Lane, as a result of concerns identified by officers inspecting a separate nearby premises."
"While inspecting Al-Aqsa Halal Meat, evidence of cockroach and rodent activity was found on the premises. The conditions found presented an imminent risk of injury to health and a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice was served."
The council's report detailed "an active infestation of cockroaches and mouse droppings at all levels over containers of prepared food." The business, operated by Al Aqsa Halal 786 Ltd, was ordered to remain closed until the health risk is removed.
Previous food hygiene rating
The butchers had previously received a Food Hygiene rating of one, meaning "major improvement necessary," in May 2025. While hygienic food handling was rated "satisfactory" and the cleanliness and condition of facilities and building was rated as "good," inspectors deemed major improvement necessary in the management of food safety.
On Monday, officers returned to Birmingham Magistrates' Court to secure the hygiene emergency prohibition order, which keeps the premises closed until council officers are satisfied that the imminent risk of injury to health has been eliminated.
