Exclusive:Specialists called in to tackle "rodent activity" in Winter Garden in Sheffield
“Cleaning arrangements are paying particular attention to areas around benches and tables where food is consumed”
A visitor has raised concerns after seeing mice on a visit to the Winter Garden in Sheffield.
Abid Fazal said he saw rodents scuttling across paths on a 45-minute visit to the attraction and even saw one as he reported them to a security guard.
He said: “It left me a bit queasy. It can’t be hygienic and you get lots of children and toddlers in there.
“In a place where people sit and relax, the last thing you want to see is mice.”
It comes after The Moor Market was closed for 16 days from June 26 due to German cockroaches.
Richard Eyre, director of street scene and regulation at Sheffield City Council, said: “We’re managing some very low-level rodent activity in the Winter Garden which is being constantly monitored. There is currently no risk to health.
“We are taking the issue seriously and working with specialist contractors to minimise and control mouse activity and to maintain a clean, welcoming and safe environment for visitors.
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“Food safety and pest control teams have provided the appropriate hygiene and proofing advice to traders and our city centre management to minimise any risk.
“With the Winter Garden being a large indoor ecosystem, with extensive planting and foliage, it can naturally provide shelter and habitat for wildlife, including mice.
“We have a current programme of preventative works to seal gaps and other potential access points around the perimeter of the building.
“Cleaning arrangements are paying particular attention to areas around benches and tables where food is consumed.
“This minimises the availability of food and other conditions which could encourage pest activity.”