Croydon Council has ordered the closure of five food businesses after council food safety officers discovered severe pest infestations that posed significant risks to public health. The action reflects the Council’s zero-tolerance approach to unsafe food practices and its ongoing commitment to protecting residents.
Since April 2024, Croydon’s food safety team has conducted 691 hygiene inspections across the borough, identifying premises that fail to meet strict health and safety standards. The recent closures highlight the Council’s readiness to take firm enforcement action where serious risks are found.
The five businesses affected include:
Raggio Di Sole, 62 Southbridge Road, South Croydon – Officers found a mouse infestation throughout the premises, creating a high risk of food contamination. The owners were ordered to pay council costs of £1,314.53.
Lifegrace Bookshop and Groceries/Tolis Food Takeaway, 80 Parchmore Road, Thornton Heath – A cockroach infestation was discovered in the shop, food preparation, and storage areas. Costs of £1,423.93 were imposed.
Chicago Pizza, Kebab and Burgers, 206b Addington Road, Selsdon – A rat infestation throughout food preparation, serving, and storage areas led to closure, with council costs of £1,408.47.
The Orchard Public House, 112 Cherry Orchard Road, Croydon – Closed twice due to a severe mouse infestation across the kitchen, bar, and cellar, resulting in significant contamination risks. Costs of £2,383.12 were charged.
Catch Star Chippy, 85 Stoats Nest Road, Coulsdon – Officers discovered an active cockroach infestation throughout the premises, with costs of £1,382.93.
These recent closures follow two other takeaways shut in May 2025. Colombo Express at 255 London Road was closed due to mouse infestations, while Asafo at 313 Whitehorse Road, Selhurst, was closed because of cockroach problems. Both posed serious risks of food contamination.
Zero-Tolerance Policy in Action
Executive Mayor Jason Perry emphasised the Council’s commitment to public safety.
“Keeping residents safe is one of the most important responsibilities of this Council, and our food safety officers are out every week inspecting premises across the borough. Where businesses break the law and put public health at risk, we will act firmly and without hesitation.
“There is zero-tolerance for unsafe food practices in Croydon. If serious risks such as pest infestations are identified, we will not hesitate to close premises until problems are properly addressed.”
The Council continues to encourage residents and businesses to uphold high hygiene standards, reinforcing Croydon’s reputation for safe, clean, and well-regulated food outlets. Regular inspections and robust enforcement are key to preventing health risks and ensuring public confidence in the borough’s food industry.
