Oxford restaurant forced to close over serious hygiene risks
Oxford City Council inspection uncovers rat infestation, mould growth, and more
A business on Cowley Road, Oxford, has been ordered to stop trading immediately after serious hygiene concerns were identified during a council inspection.
Red Star was served with a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order (HEPO)—one of the strongest enforcement measures available to local authorities—after inspections revealed risks deemed an imminent threat to public health.
According to Oxford City Council’s Environmental Health Officers, issues identified included evidence of a rat infestation, mould growth on walls and ceilings, exposed food stored on the floor, and extensive cleanliness issues in food preparation and storage areas.
The order was officially confirmed at High Wycombe Magistrates' Court on 27th January 2026, requiring the business to cease trading until all hygiene breaches are rectified and compliance with food safety laws is ensured.
Regular inspections are conducted across food businesses in Oxford to ensure public safety. The council encourages members of the public to report any food hygiene concerns.
Councillor Lubna Arshad, Cabinet Member for a Safer Oxford, said:
“This action demonstrates our commitment to protecting residents, visitors, and the wider community. We will not hesitate to take robust enforcement action where food safety standards fall significantly below what the public has a right to expect.
“The vast majority of food businesses in our area operate responsibly and maintain good hygiene standards. Enforcement action such as this is about raising standards across the sector and ensuring a level playing field for compliant businesses.”