More than 250 rat infestations reported in Chesterfield this year

Environmental services have been called out to tackle 266 rat infestations in Chesterfield so far this year, a Freedom of Information Act (FOI) request has revealed.
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The number of infestations has increased steadily in the borough since 2017 – wih 2019 recording the highest figure of 282 call outs.

With several months of data still to be added, 2020 seems likely to pass this total.

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It is believed rats are thriving across the country this year because so many town and city centres are quieter than normal due to the coronavirus pandemic, while vacant shops and offices offer warm and dry places to build nests.

Environmental services in Chesterfield have been called to tackle rat infestations 266 times this year already. Photo: Pixabay.Environmental services in Chesterfield have been called to tackle rat infestations 266 times this year already. Photo: Pixabay.
Environmental services in Chesterfield have been called to tackle rat infestations 266 times this year already. Photo: Pixabay.

Jenny Rathbone, of Pest.co.uk, one of the country’s leading vermin exterminators, said: “Rats are loving life at the moment.

“They are being left to breed in vacant shops. Our technicians out there have seen nothing like this before.”

Chesterfield Borough Council leaders say they respond to hundreds of call outs because rats ‘pose a risk to our community’ through public health concerns and also damage to pipes and cables in buildings.

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Councillor Jill Mannion-Brunt, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said there are some things that we can all do to help restrict the rat population in Chesterfield.

“Rats like people need food, water and shelter to survive and outbuildings, sheds and the space under decking make suitable living accommodation,” she said.

"We encourage all residents to be proactive and keep a look out for any signs of rats like bite marks or scratches and make sure you eliminate any small gaps in these areas as rats can squeeze through a gap smaller than 25mm in size.

"Your drains need to be sealed because rats are strong swimmers and can use sewage pipes as passages around the borough.

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"Keep your bins closed and make sure all bin bags are securely sealed as this an important food source for rats.”

The number of call-outs over the last five years are as follows: 2015 – 255, 2016 – 217, 2017 – 194, 2018 – 211, 2019 – 282.

Coun Mannion-Brunt added: “If you are concerned about the potential for rats or other pests to become an infestation at your property, the council offers a home advice service for £20.”

For more information, visit the council’s website.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.