People and communities
Café operator fined for poor food hygiene standards and uncleanliness
Published on
A food business operator has been fined for six offences relating to poor food hygiene and uncleanliness at a Brownhills café.
On 17 August 2023, Walsall Council Environmental Health Officers made an unannounced visit to Central Café, where the officers had previously observed that there was insufficient kitchen ventilation. A hygiene improvement notice had previously been served to the food business operator, but this was not complied with when the visit took place on this date.
Officers revisited the premises on 17 January 2024. Areas of the premises were found to be unclean and not in good condition, including structural items in the kitchen, food equipment and appliances. The structure of the kitchen was also not maintained with deteriorated shelving, a wooden divider and missing wall tiles. In addition, the operator failed to implement a documented Food Safety Management System based on HACCP principles, evidenced by poor cleaning standards and the condition of equipment.
On 19 February 2025, the case was heard at Dudley Magistrates Court and the defendant pleaded guilty to the offences. Ms Hannah was fined £569, with victim surcharges of £231 and costs of £1,000, totalling £1,800.
A collection order has been served, with the first payment due in 28 days.
“ Our teams have achieved another successful prosecution, and I commend their hard work in bringing this case to court.
This defendant intentionally breached the law and risked public health by failing to comply with food hygiene regulations.
Our Environmental Health officers work closely with food businesses to ensure they maintain high standards. When concerns arise, we will issue the appropriate notices, and if these are ignored, we will take legal action. “
ENDS
Notes to editor
- Residents are encouraged to report any concerns about hygiene of any food premises within the borough. Information on how to contact Environmental Health can be found on the Walsall Council website: https://go.walsall.gov.uk/business/food-businesses-and-their-safety
