Southsea convenience store shut over ‘one of worst’ mouse infestations seen by inspectors
A convenience store in Southsea described as having “one of the worst mouse infestations” ever seen by inspectors has been shut down, Portsmouth City Council has said.
Premier Express Nice ‘n’ Fresh, on Victoria Road North, was served a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice on Tuesday 10 February 2026 following a complaint from a member of the public.
An environmental health officer who visited the shop found clear evidence of a widespread mouse infestation. Droppings were visible on shelves next to sweets and other food items.
Inspectors also found several packets of gnawed crisps and snacks on sale, which the council said was direct evidence of food contamination and posed a clear risk to public health.
The business was closed immediately.
On Thursday 12 February, a district judge at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court granted a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order, along with full costs.
The order prevents Pinal and Mehul Ltd, the food business operator, from trading at the premises until the infestation has been resolved.
Cllr Lee Hunt, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Leisure and Sport at Portsmouth City Council, said the infestation was among the most severe officers had encountered.
“The environmental health officer who visited described this as one of the worst infestations they have ever seen in a retail business,” he said.
“Mice can spread diseases such as Salmonella and Campylobacter through their droppings and urine, so when they come into contact with open food or contaminate the outside of packets like in this case, there is an imminent risk of illness to people’s health.
“We want to work with businesses to resolve any issues before they get to this dangerous state and have to be closed, and thankfully the vast majority of the city’s traders operate good hygiene practices.”
The council said the shop must remain closed until officers are satisfied that adequate pest control measures have been put in place and food safety standards are being met.
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