Birmingham City Council has shut down a restaurant in the city after environmental health officers discovered a severe cockroach infestation during a routine inspection. The establishment, which has not been named publicly, was immediately closed under a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice.
Inspectors Found Widespread Contamination
Officers from the council’s environmental health team visited the restaurant on July 12 following a complaint from a member of the public. They found cockroaches in the kitchen, food storage areas, and dining room. Dead insects and droppings were present on surfaces, including chopping boards and preparation tables.
The inspection revealed that the restaurant had failed to maintain adequate pest control measures. Cockroach eggs were found in crevices and behind equipment, indicating an established infestation. Food was stored in containers that were not sealed, allowing pests to access it.
Restaurant Owner Cooperated with Closure
The owner voluntarily agreed to close the business immediately after being presented with the evidence. The council served a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice, which prevents the restaurant from reopening until it meets required hygiene standards.
According to Birmingham City Council, the restaurant will remain closed until a further inspection confirms that the infestation has been eliminated and all necessary improvements have been made. The council stated that it is committed to protecting public health and will take enforcement action where necessary.
Public Health Risk Highlighted
Cockroaches can carry bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause food poisoning. They also produce allergens that can trigger asthma and other respiratory conditions. The council stressed that the infestation posed an imminent risk to public health.
Councillor Barbara Dring, chair of the licensing and public protection committee, said: “We will not hesitate to take action against any food business that puts the public at risk. This restaurant had a severe cockroach infestation that could have caused serious illness. Our officers acted quickly to protect the public.”
Enforcement Action Part of Wider Crackdown
This closure is part of a broader effort by Birmingham City Council to improve food hygiene standards across the city. In the past year, the council has shut down several establishments for similar breaches, including a takeaway found with mouse droppings and a bakery with mold in its storage areas.
The council encourages the public to report concerns about food hygiene by contacting its environmental health team. All food businesses in England are required to display their food hygiene rating, which can be checked online via the Food Standards Agency website.
