Birmingham Magistrates Court heard that environmental health officers from Birmingham City Council conducted a routine inspection of Taste of Persia on Hagley Road on June 30, 2024, and discovered extensive pest control issues throughout the premises.
Cockroaches found in kitchen and storage areas
Adult cockroaches, both dead and alive, as well as juvenile cockroaches were found in the cooker, beneath the stove, under worktops, on pans, on shelves, and on the floor. Officers also discovered cracks in wood where cockroaches could hide and lay eggs.
Megan Stanley, prosecuting on behalf of Birmingham City Council, told magistrates that the inspection concluded there was an “imminent risk to public health.” She explained that cockroaches move indiscriminately between clean and dirty areas and can contaminate food and equipment, potentially causing the spread of E. coli, salmonella, and other diseases.
Emergency prohibition notice served
An emergency prohibition notice was served to the company owners, Am Victual, along with a schedule of works to rectify the problem. Environmental health officers stated that the company had informed them that treatment had been applied and the premises were being cleaned. However, health bosses said concerns remained.
Magistrates granted a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order during the hearing on Thursday, July 2. The order will remain in place until the issues are rectified and the council is satisfied that there is no longer a risk to public health.
