Takeaway closed due to rat infestation
A Darlington takeaway has been served with an Emergency Prohibition Order by Newton Aycliffe Magistrates Court today (Thursday 28 December 2023) under the provisions of the Food Safety & Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013. The action was in relation to a significant rodent infestation at the premises.
The infestation was discovered by Darlington Borough Council’s environmental health team when they caried out a routine food hygiene visit on 14 December. The premises, Thai Lemon of 149 Northgate Darlington, was closed down at the time of the visit as it posed an immediate risk to public health.
Environmental health officer Brian Whelan, who inspected the premises, said:
“We carry out routine food hygiene inspections as part of our regular work to ensure that food premises are following the correct guidance in terms of food storage, preparation and general hygiene standards of the premises.
“Each inspection is then rated, and the outlet can then display this on their window or door. However, on the rare occasion when standards are not met, we will offer advice and guidance that the business owner must comply with if they are to receive a good hygiene score. If we find evidence of conditions that pose an immediate danger to public health, including a rodent infestation, we have the power to close down a business with immediate effect.
“This closure is then followed up by a magistrate’s order which closes the premises until remedial action is carried out and our officers are satisfied that there is no risk to public health. We will work with the business to educate and inform where necessary.”
Councillor Chris McEwan, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for economy added:
“I accompanied Brian on this visit and had the dubious privilege of witnessing the conditions that caused the closure of this business. This closure sends a clear message to food businesses that they must maintain hygiene standards at their premises or action will be taken.
“Our environmental health officers work tirelessly to ensure that food businesses comply with the necessary food hygiene legislation which in turn serves to protect public health. In our recent campaign we’ve encouraged residents to check out before they eat out – checking the food hygiene rating of a business before they decide where to eat out at or order food from.
“In Darlington around 99% of our food premises have a score of three or more (90% have a score of four or five) but this can change so it is essential that people check the scores before they order.”
Food hygiene scores can be checked out here
Contact the team on 01325 405111 or email [email protected] for more information.