Several takeaways and restaurants in Luton were rated zero in their latest food hygiene inspections and require ‘urgent improvement’.
Hygiene ratings from the past few weeks, listed on the Scores on The Doors website, show three takeaways with zero out of five for heath and safety, and six with a measly one.
The worst offenders are Al Bilal in Dunstable Road, Baba Lal in Leagrave Road, Coffee Pot in Nadeem Plaza, Dunstable Road, and Peoples Choice in New Bedford Road, all of which scored zero for hygiene.
A Luton Borough Council spokesperson said: “Officers are working closely with each of the premises mentioned and taking a graduated approach to securing and improving compliance. Enforcement powers will be used if necessary.
“Some of the premises have already started making improvements and if this is sustained they will get an improved hygiene rating at the next unannounced inspection.”
High Town Kebab in High Town Road, Mirpur Grill in Leagrave Road, H and H Cafe, in Eaton Green Road and Southern Fried Chicken, in Marsh Road were all rated ‘one’ in their recent unannounced inspections.
A rating of one means major improvement is necessary and a rating of zero means urgent improvement is necessary.
In order to be closed down, an establishment must pose an imminent risk to health for ooficcers to lawfully close it.
Examples include active pest infestations and drainage problems within food preparation areas.
Failure to act could result in serious public health issues.
If the business is non-compliant, officers use their enforcement powers to secure compliance in line with the council’s enforcement policy.
The Herald & Post contacted the owners of the establishments scoring zero but no one was available to speak to.
Recently inspected establishments which scored better include Lucky House in Leagrave Road, Daily Roast Cafe in Britannia Estate, Leagrave Road, Fillers Sandwich Bar in Stockingstone Road, Central Baptist Church in Park Street and Greggs The Bakers in Sundon Park Road which were all rated five.
Members of the public can check all premisies at www.food.gov.uk/ratings.