Mini market told to close after rat infestation reopens

By Harrison Galliven, Local Democracy Reporter

A mini market which was ordered to close after inspectors found evidence of a rat infestation has reopened.

Grand Fresh Market in Grand Drive, Lower Morden was closed following an inspection by the food hygiene standard body on December 12.

Merton council’s food hygiene inspectors discovered contaminated foodstuffs following a tip-off from a customer who had recently spotted rats during a shopping trip.

Inspectors found that rats had inhabited areas near fresh and tinned food, with clear evidence of droppings being found on a number of products. According to the council, the rats targeted lentils, biscuits and tea bags in particular. 

Merton deemed the situation so severe it posed an imminent risk to public health. Once a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice was served, the premises were closed until further notice. The Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order was awarded during a hearing at Wimbledon Magistrates Court on December 19. 

Merton’s environmental health team is now satisfied the issues have been rectified and the shop has since reopened.

Councillor Eleanor Stringer, cabinet member for civic pride, said: “Rogue premises such as these cannot be tolerated. 

“We’re grateful to members of the public who report substandard or unhygienic businesses to the Council, so we can swiftly address any risk to public health.”

Pictured top: The shop has now reopened as environmental health experts feel the issues have been rectified (Picture: Merton council)