ABERYSTWYTH Magistrates’ Court has granted an Emergency Prohibition Order (EPO) against The Royal Oak Hotel in Lampeter after inspectors uncovered a heavy cockroach infestation in the bar and cellar.
The order, issued on Friday (Sept 19), legally prohibits use of the affected areas until Ceredigion County Council is satisfied the health risk has been removed.
Cockroaches discovered
The Council’s Public Protection team launched an investigation following a complaint from a member of the public. An unannounced inspection on September 8 found widespread cockroach activity in the bar, with live and dead insects discovered on monitoring boards. A live adult cockroach was also seen.
Evidence of infestation was found in the cellar, but the separate kitchen and café areas were not affected.
A pest control contractor called in the following day confirmed a heavy German cockroach infestation behind the main bar. The Council served a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice on September 9, which was upheld by the court after a follow-up visit on September 16 found continuing activity.
Council statement
Councillor Matthew Vaux, Ceredigion’s Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: “We welcome the court’s decision. Where officers find an imminent risk to health, we act without delay. This Order ensures the affected areas remain closed until the infestation is fully eradicated and we are satisfied that the risk to the public has been removed. We continue to work with the business and its pest control contractor to support a safe, compliant opening as soon as possible.”
Why it matters
Cockroaches can contaminate food and surfaces with droppings, saliva and shed skins, and can spread bacteria such as Salmonella and E.coli. Allergens from cockroaches can also trigger asthma and respiratory problems.
The EPO means the Royal Oak Hotel’s bar and cellar must remain shut until the council issues a certificate confirming there is no longer a health risk.
Public urged to report concerns
The Council said the case highlights the importance of public reports. Concerns about food hygiene in Ceredigion can be raised by emailing [email protected] or by calling 01545 570881.
