Kens Fried Chicken temporarily closes for refurbishment following active mouse infestation discovery
A well-known takeaway shop is temporarily closed for refurbishment after previously being shut down due to an active mouse infestation.
Kens Fried Chicken, in Commercial Road, Portsmouth, was closed down by environmental health officers on Wednesday, February 18 following a routine inspection which revealed a rodent infestation.
As a result, the site was issued a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice, forcing the business to close until the issue is resolved.
A notice has now gone up at the takeaway, saying: “Our Commerical Road branch is temporarily closed for refurbishment. The health and safety of our customers and staff is our priority. We are working on ensuring this branch’s environment is at the highest standard.
“We are working closely with professional Food Hygiene Audit and Training Services, updating our food hygiene management system and ensuring compliance with local environmental standards.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused to our customers and community and understand your concerns. Thank you for your patience during this temporary closure. Further updates will follow.”
In recent months, Portsmouth City Council has revealed a number of businesses have had to close to address mouse infestations that pose a risk to public health.
Councillor Lee Hunt, cabinet member for community safety, leisure, and sport, previously said: “The level of mouse activity identified posed a clear and immediate risk to public health.
“Food businesses must maintain clean, pest‑proof premises at all times. Protecting residents is our top priority, and immediate closure was necessary.”
More updates to follow.