Walsall Magistrates Court has issued a closure order for M&T Supermarket Limited on Thursday, August 31, following an inspection conducted by Environmental Health officials.
During their visit to the Caldmore-based supermarket on August 24, Walsall Council officers discovered alarming evidence of an extensive cockroach and mouse infestation, posing an immediate health hazard. Consequently, a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice was promptly issued.
Councillor Garry Perry, the Portfolio Holder for Resilient Communities at Walsall Council, expressed shock and concern over the deplorable conditions found within a store that was once trusted by the community. He emphasized the importance of ensuring businesses prioritise public health and safety.
The Caldmore Road supermarket, renowned as the largest ethnic store in the West Midlands since it opened in 1981, has been forced to cease operations based on the evidence presented at Walsall Magistrates Court. Its closure will remain in effect until Environmental Health authorities are satisfied that all health risks have been effectively addressed.
Councillor Perry underscored the Council’s commitment to helping businesses thrive within the community while ensuring they operate within the boundaries of the law, prioritising the health and safety of customers and residents. The hope is that M&T Supermarket will collaborate with officials to rectify the situation.