Veggie Fellas, on Caldmore Road, was served with a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice by Walsall Council on 22 July 2026 after Environmental Health officers identified an imminent risk to public health.
During a routine inspection, officers found extensive signs of pest activity throughout the food preparation areas, including mouse droppings and a live mouse.
Mouse droppings were also found on food preparation equipment, including a pizza oven, food baskets and food storage containers. Officers concluded there was sufficient evidence to confirm an active and widespread mouse infestation.
“ Residents should be able to trust that the food they buy is prepared in safe and hygienic conditions. When our Environmental Health officers find serious failings that put public health at risk, we will act quickly to protect the public.
Councillor Ian Benton
The conditions found at these premises fell well below the standards expected of any food business. Businesses have a duty to maintain clean and hygienic environments, and where they fail to do so, we will not hesitate to use the enforcement powers available to us.
Our priority is always to safeguard residents and ensure food businesses across the borough meet the standards required by law. “
Portfolio Holder for Street Scene and Enforcement at Walsall Council
The case was heard at Dudley Magistrates' Court on 29th July 2026 where magistrates granted a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order, confirming that the Council's decision to close the premises with immediate effect was appropriate and justified.
The Court also ordered the business to pay the Council's costs of £475.
The business is currently working closely with Walsall Council’s Environmental Health officers to address the issues identified and implement the necessary improvements. The business has committed to resolving the matters raised and meeting the required food safety standards before reopening.
