Copeland Council says rat infestations are on the rise

Residents on the Woodhouse estate in Whitehaven, say they are fearful for the health and safety of children.

Hundreds of residents have signed a petition calling on council bosses to rid the estate of vermin.

The authority admits it has seen a big rise in reported rat infestations.

A 300-name petition has been signed by people living on the estate, in which they blame council chiefs for not collecting the rubbish frequently enough.

Charges planned

The authority says its policy of collecting street bins fortnightly is effective in reducing waste and public trips to landfill sites.

A council spokesman said: "Each year thousands of visits are made to treat domestic and commercial properties in the borough for vermin, insects and other pests that are causing problems.

"Much work is also done on a proactive basis to oversee the removal of waste, tidying of houses and gardens and the maintenance of sewers and drains.

"Despite this we, along with the rest of the UK, has seen a sharp increase in the number of reported rat infestations.

"The implications for the council are obvious. Increased time, resources and money is being spent dealing with rat treatments and associated enforcement work.

"As a response to this the council is proposing to make a charge for treatment of rats in domestic premises.

"However the service will be free to all pensioners."