DUDLEY council has explained how a dirty takeaway that was found to have committed 18 hygiene and health breaches was able to stay open for more than 18 months after the problems were revealed.

Council hygiene inspectors found serious problems at the Figaro Pizza takeaway in Halesowen back in January 2019, and more issues in June 2019.

And in January 2020 it was given just 1 out of 5 in another inspection and told major improvements were needed.

Dudley Council last week published pictures of just how filthy the place was after the owner was fined more than £2,600 in court.

Yet, despite the repeated failures, the takeaway only closed down voluntarily – and temporarily – about ‘3 to 4 months ago’ – before the court hearing where a prohibition order was being sought.

Councillor Nicolas Barlow, cabinet member responsible for environmental health, said: “We can only close premises down through the courts when they present an imminent risk to health.

“Until that time we work with them to raise standards to an acceptable level.

“As soon as the business was found to be continuing to break the law we started legal proceedings which resulted in a prosecution and fine.”

The Food Standards Agency says enforcement action by inspectors can include:

- seizing foods suspected to be unfit for human consumption

- sending a letter outlining issues and asking for them to corrected

- serving a formal legal notice forbidding certain processes, premises or equipment

- recommending a prosecution

The takeaway is due to open under new ownership in the next few months.