A KFC was shut down by food hygiene inspectors after they discovered signs of a “rat infestation” and “very poor cleaning”.

On Tuesday, August 9, Waltham Forest Council’s food safety team issued a hygiene emergency prohibition notice to the High Road, Leytonstone, branch of the fast-food giant.

The stated reasons for the closure were a “rat infestation”, “very poor cleaning” and “poor management control”.

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A spokesperson for the council has confirmed the fried chicken shop’s operator, Triple D Ltd, will face appear in court next week.

KFC’s spokesperson confirmed the restaurant will remain closed while its management “work closely” with the council to “make things right”.

They added: “We’ll be reopening our doors once things are back up to the standard we and our fans expect.

“Operating responsibly is our number one priority and we have strict processes in place to ensure the quality and hygiene of all our restaurants.”

The spokesperson did not respond when asked for further details of the “strict processes” in place.

A previous food safety inspection of the Leytonstone branch, in March 2021, saw it awarded a ‘very good’ rating.