Bicester KFC branch owners fined for cockroach infestation

A cockroach infestation was discovered by council officers in 2022

The owners of a KFC have been fined after inspectors discovered a cockroach infestation.

SBR Retail Limited, who run the branch on Buckingham Road in Bicester, were fined £30,000 after pleading guilty to four food hygiene offences.

Cherwell District Council officers discovered a cockroach infestation, and dead flies were also found in a walk-in fridge, during a 2022 inspection.

The branch has since made improvements and now has a four-star rating.

Along with the insect issues, the branch were also found to have stored chicken in dirty containers, and have a washbasin with faulty drainage.

SBR Retail Limited, pleaded guilty to four food hygiene offences in December and was sentenced at Oxford Magistrates' Court in January.

As well as the £30,000 fine, the judge awarded Cherwell District Council costs of over £5,000 and ordered the offender to pay a £2,000 victim surcharge.

Councillor Phil Chapman, Portfolio Holder for Healthy and Safe Communities at Cherwell District Council, said: "This was a shocking case, which the judge agreed put public health at risk."

He called the verdict a "positive result for anyone who enjoys eating out in north Oxfordshire".

It was also a reminder to other food outlets to "abide by the law", he added, warning that the council would "not hesitate" to take action when necessary.

The branch voluntarily closed following the negative inspection, but has since re-opened following improvements.