Copnor Takeaway reopens after being described as 'unsafe and unhygienic’ following mouse infestation

A takeaway has been allowed to reopen after previously being described as 'unsafe and unhygienic’ due to a rodent infestation.

Copnor Takeaway, in Copnor Road, is operating as usual after being ordered to shut last week after a visit from the Portsmouth City Council’s environmental officers uncovered an active mouse infestation.

The routine inspection revealed the food storeroom at the back of the kitchen was riddled with mice, with droppings found near open boxes of food.

Councillor Lee Hunt, cabinet member for community safety, leisure and sport, previously said “the swift result shows that we will take the strongest possible action to stop businesses operating in unsafe and unhygienic ways.”

At the time of the inspection, the takeaway was issued a signed Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order, preventing it from reopening until appropriate action has been taken to resolve the infestation.

A spokesperson for Portsmouth City Council has confirmed the business has now reopened following a second visit.

The temporary closure is one of many, with more than 80 venues being shut down over the past few years due to an increase in rodent infestations across the city.