Tesco in New Milton shut after evidence of rodents found

Tesco Express in Old New Milton Road, New Milton, recently closed its doors to allow for “essential maintenance works” to rectify the issue. 

The local authority, New Forest District Council, said it will work with Tesco to ensure the premises is “thoroughly cleaned and disinfected”. 

A pest control contractor is monitoring for any signs of rodent activity in the shop before the store’s reopening, believed to be in around two weeks' time. 

Tesco Express in New Milton (Image: Google Maps)

A spokeswoman for New Forest District Council said: “The environmental health team were informed by Tesco that they had taken the decision to close the store following evidence of rodents and in order to undertake refurbishment work.  

“The business was not formally closed by the council and officers have been working with Tesco to ensure that whilst closed, the premises is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, any rodent entry points are proofed and that the pest control contractor continues to monitor for any signs of rodent activity. 

“Officers are visiting the site and have also checked neighbouring premises for evidence of rodents.  

“The team will continue to monitor the situation and work closely with Tesco to ensure work is completed prior to safely opening the store.” 

Read more: Wait almost over for new Aldi store which is directly opposite Tesco supermarket

A Tesco spokesperson said: “We’re working hard to reopen our Old Milton Road Express store which is undergoing essential maintenance works.  

“We expect to reopen in late November and apologise for any inconvenience.  

“In the meantime, customers are invited to visit our New Milton superstore.”