���˿���

Caffè Nero has been fined over a suspected rat infestation discovered at one of its outlets in Belfast city centre.

The chain was fined £4,000 after pleading guilty to failing to pest proof its premises on Lombard Street, as well as not having adequate procedures in place for controlling rodents.

Belfast City Council brought proceedings against the company under food hygiene regulations following an environmental health inspection in September 2023.

A third alleged offence of failing to keep the store clean and maintained was dismissed.

Belfast Magistrates’ Court heard the Environmental Health officer (EHO) found trays of rat bait along with droppings inside an electric box.

Other droppings were found underneath seating pads in booths at the front of the coffee shop.

Further problems were identified close to a main sewer cover, separated from front of house drinks and food stations by a stud wall.

A council lawyer told the court: “The EHO was concerned that rats were exiting the sewer and gaining access to the food preparation area.”

More droppings and bait boxes were observed at an internal cladded area on a wall close to the kitchen.

Plans to inspect a storage area had to be aborted because it was full of old equipment, chairs, tables and decorations.

“This area was regarded by the officer as being an ideal place of harbourage for rats due to the fact it was quiet and difficult to access,” the prosecutor added.

“Based on her inspection, the officer was of the opinion there was a current rat infestation throughout the premises.”

Caffè Nero’s area manager attended and agreed to voluntarily close the premises for contractors to carry out checks.

The Lombard Street venue is one of 22 Caffè Nero branches in Belfast.

The firm has a total of 40 outlets across Northern Ireland and nearly 700 shops throughout the UK and Ireland.

Barrister for defendant company Nero Holding Ltd, Chris Sherrard, detailed a series of steps taken since the inspection.

“Mesh has been inserted into the drain that’s thought to be the cause for concern,” he said.

Mr Sherrard argued that the branch is located in a congested and problematic part of the city for pest control.

Passing sentence, Judge Conner said: “Whilst I want to give credit for the plea, these are very serious matters.

“I will impose a fine of £2,000 in respect of each of the two complaints."

Caffè Nero was also ordered to pay the Council’s £359 legal costs in the case.