Swindon shop reopens after rat infestation

A Swindon shop shut down last month over a serious rat infestation has been allowed to reopen, following significant improvements – but it will retain its zero food hygiene rating for now.

9 O’Clock Shop on Manchester Road was closed on 17 June by Swindon Borough Council, after inspectors deemed it posed “an imminent risk to health” due to extensive pest activity and poor cleanliness.

Swindon Magistrates’ Court heard that council officers acted after a complaint from a member of the public who reported seeing rats inside the premises. When inspectors visited, they found evidence of an active infestation, including rat droppings, gnawed food items, and seven dead rats in the flat above the shop.

There were also hygiene concerns, including flies on butchery equipment, food debris in chillers, and a strong smell of rodents in a side room where incense sticks appeared to have been used to mask the odour.

During a return visit on 25 June, inspectors found that pest-proofing had been completed, the butchery floor had been replaced, and cleaning had “significantly improved.” The shop was then allowed to reopen.

The court confirmed that the council was right to issue the Emergency Prohibition Notice and awarded full costs of £2,922.50 to the council.

Councillor Jim Grant, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnerships, said: “Pest control should be an absolute priority for anyone who owns a food business. This case shows what can happen when you do not take it seriously.”

He added that while the store had made progress, it must continue working to raise hygiene standards and improve its food hygiene rating.