Pest infestations prompt closures at three Birmingham businesses

Birmingham magistrates ordered emergency hygiene closures at three businesses after inspections found serious pest problems posing risks to public health. Oakhurst News Express was found with rat droppings, urine, blood, gnawed food packaging and signs of nesting; after pest treatment and cleaning, inspectors confirmed the risk had been addressed, while advising the operator to seal entry holes. At Charcoal Grill on Alum Rock Road, inspectors found cockroaches and unsanitary kitchen equipment, and cockroaches remained during a follow-up inspection, so the health risk persisted. Nearby Prime Shop was found to have mice and cockroaches, including cockroaches on shelves beside bread and evidence of multiple generations of infestation.