Rat Infestation at Cornwall Restaurant Leads to £4,646 Fine

Photo: Taken during the inspection at 12 Beach Road. –  Credit Cornwall Council.

A Newquay restaurant has been fined over £4,000 after a rat infestation and filthy conditions were uncovered during a routine inspection. Pollocks Pub Company Ltd, which operates several bars and restaurants across Cornwall, faced prosecution after serious food safety breaches were discovered at their site on Beach Road, Newquay.

Filthy Conditions and Rat Infestation

During a visit by Cornwall Council officers on 18 October 2023, the premises at 12 Beach Road was found to be in a state of disrepair, with significant dirt and grime. Inspectors reported an active rat infestation, finding old and fresh rodent droppings in areas used for food storage and preparation. In one alarming moment, a live rat was seen in a corridor next to the kitchen.

The company agreed to close the premises voluntarily to address the infestation and carry out a deep clean. However, further investigation revealed the rodent problem had been ongoing for some time, even as the business continued to trade, potentially putting customers at risk.

Photo: Taken during the inspection at 12 Beach Road. –  Credit Cornwall Council.

Court Ruling and Fines

On 8 October 2024, Pollocks Pub Company Ltd appeared before Bodmin Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty to three offences under the Food Safety and Hygiene Regulations (England) 2013. They were fined £1,000, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £400, and Cornwall Council was awarded £3,426 in costs.

In summing up, the Magistrates stressed the seriousness of the breaches, which they said endangered public health, reminding businesses that food hygiene ratings must be earned through adherence to safety standards.

Photo: Taken during the inspection at 12 Beach Road. –  Credit Cornwall Council.

Council’s Warning to Businesses

Cornwall Council’s Councillor Martyn Alvey, portfolio holder for Enforcement and Public Protection, emphasised the Council’s commitment to public safety, stating that businesses which fail to address such risks will face prosecution.

This case highlights the importance of maintaining hygiene standards in food establishments, with Cornwall Council continuing to monitor and enforce regulations to protect the public.

Photo: Taken during the inspection at 12 Beach Road. –  Credit Cornwall Council.