Residents' concerns over rats gathering at Derry dumping eyesore

AN appeal has been issued to those engaged in fly tipping at a derelict site in Derry to now desist from dumping household rubbish over fears that rats will be attracted to the area.

The warning comes after hoardings erected at the site, located at the junction of Beechwood Avenue and Marlborough Street, recently came down following a period of bad weather.

That has now resulted in an upsurge in illegal dumping at the site, with bags of household now being deposited at the area.

Speaking to the Derry News, Creggan SDLP councillor Jim Clifford said that the dumping had become a matter of serious concern for those living in homes nearby.

“I understand that the hoardings have come down as a result of the recent bad weather, but vandalism may have also played a part in this,” he said.

“Whatever the cause, rubbish is starting to build up at the site and this is something that has also caused problems in a number of other green areas nearby.

Cllr Clifford added: “The fear now is that if rubbish is allowed to gather at the site, then there’s a good chance that will attract rats, which poses a massive health risk to the surrounding community, especially young children.”

A spokesperson for Derry City Council explained that officers from its building control section visited the site late last year following reports  of hoarding falling down causing a dangerous structure, however the issue was dealt with quickly and no action was required.

“We are currently trying to ascertain if our Environmental health section had any dealings with the property and will be able to clarify this when we get an update from the relevant officer later today,” the spokesperson said.

“Derry City Council will certainly investigate and take any action that is required and will report relevant issues to the Department of Environment (DoE).”