A Walsall butcher has been forced to close down his shop after being served with a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice this week.
The closure of SM Butchers on Stafford Street was given the go ahead at Walsall Magristrates Court on Monday 31 October following the discovery of a severe German cockroach infestation.
The butchers is forbidden to open until the infestation has been removed and the premises cleaned.
Councillor Garry Perry, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Resilient Communities said: “Cockroach infestations are a serious public health concern and I want to thank our environmental health officers once again for their hard work to keep our community safe.
“As the weather gets colder, many pests will be looking for somewhere warm to live so business owners need to be even more vigilant to ensure that premises are kept clean and entry points into the property are dealt with.
“We want to see local businesses flourish so these closures are not taken lightly. We are always keen to engage with business owners to give advice and guidance to help prevent these issues arising.”