The KFC on Cornmarket Street has reopened following a week-long closure prompted by a hygiene concern. The fast-food restaurant closed on 18th October with a notice in the windows that read: “Really sorry…we’re closed at the moment. But don’t worry – we’ll be back at the fryers as soon as we can.”
A KFC spokesperson told Cherwell: “a mouse had been spotted near the front counter and so, in line with our procedures, the team immediately closed and co-ordinated a full investigation with our health and safety specialists to ensure the restaurant meets our high standards.”
He added: “We have strict processes in place to ensure the quality and hygiene standards of all our restaurants.”
The Cornmarket Street location was awarded a Level 5 (very good) food hygiene rating by the FSA (Food Standards Agency), with the last inspection taking place in June.
The KFC webpage for the Cornmarket Street restaurant states: “The safety of our guests and our teams remains our top priority. You can be assured we’re closely following the latest guidance and have all the necessary safety measures in place, including protective screens and increased sanitising in our restaurants.”
The KFC at the Oxford M40 Welcome Break service station, a 20-minutes-drive from Oxford city centre, was closed in June earlier this year after a cockroach infestation was discovered in the food preparation area. During the pandemic, the KFC on Cowley Road was fined £1000 by the Oxford City Council for breaking COVID-19 restrictions.