Indian takeaway in Portsmouth closed by court order after being struck by mice infestation
The restaurant will be closed until further notice after a court order was enforced.
An Indian takeaway in the heart of Portsmouth has been closed after becoming overrun with mice.
Spice Box in Winter Road, Southsea, is a takeaway joint that specialises in both Indian and Turkish food, with a mix of curries and kebabs on the menu. But an investigation has found that there are mice running rampant in the kitchen.
This morning (Friday, May 22), a court order brought forward by Portsmouth City Council forced the venue to close.
Magistrates at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court were told of how mouse droppings were found near a stack of onions, as well as close to other food in the kitchen. Due to ongoing construction work, there were holes in the walls of the staff room and other areas, which the city council claimed were being used as access points by the mice.
A note in the window of the takeaway venue read: “The court is satisfied that a health risk condition is fulfilled in respect of Spice Box, and hereby makes a hygiene emergency prohibition order, namely that there be a prohibition on the use of the premises until such time as the following steps are completed.
“Thoroughly clean and disinfect all areas and surfaces of the premises. Remove all grease and food debris and use a BS EN 1276 standard sanitiser.
“Carry out appropriate treatment for rodents by a competent contractor, remove harbourage and take appropriate measures to proof the premises as necessary to deny access to he food and drink areas.”
The magistrates ruled that Spice Box must remain closed until Environmental Health is satisfied that the infestation has been cleared. They also ordered the restaurant to pay £824 in costs.
Portsmouth City Council has been contacted by The News for further comment.