Manchester United’s iconic Old Trafford stadium has been hit by a mice infestation, leading to a significant reduction in its food hygiene rating from four stars to two.
This setback follows a recent inspection by environmental health officers, which uncovered evidence of rodent activity in a ground-level corporate suite and a food kiosk on the concourse.
Rodent Issues and Hygiene Concerns
According to Mail Sport, inspectors discovered droppings during their visit, raising concerns about hygiene standards in certain areas of the stadium.
While no issues were found in areas where food is prepared, the findings prompted immediate action, with pest control now conducting up to five visits per week to address the problem.
The infestation is partly attributed to Old Trafford’s location, which sits between a canal and a railway line, as well as colder winter temperatures that drive pests toward warmer, sheltered areas.
The challenge is compounded by the stadium hosting approximately 74,000 fans each game, generating significant debris that can attract rodents.
A Manchester United spokesperson stated:
“Manchester United implements a robust pest-control system throughout Old Trafford. Multiple weekly checks are made in all catering areas, and stringent measures are taken to ensure levels of hygiene and cleanliness are high wherever food is stored, prepared, and served. If incidences of this nature do occur at the stadium, immediate and appropriate action is taken.”
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A History of Maintenance Issues
The infestation adds to a series of problems plaguing Old Trafford, originally built in 1910. Leaks and infrastructure concerns have been recurrent, with footage recently surfacing of water dripping during a press conference.
This latest issue has intensified discussions around the future of the stadium, with new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS weighing options to either renovate Old Trafford or construct a new venue.
Moving Forward
Trafford Council confirmed their collaboration with the club to address the situation:
“Our environmental health officers gave a food hygiene rating of two following a routine visit. We are now working closely with Manchester United to ensure it complies with the rating and carries out the necessary improvements.”
United aims to restore its five-star rating quickly, as most Premier League clubs maintain the highest hygiene standards.
