‘People are frightened to go out’ – Residents appeal for help after Sheffield street is ‘overrun’ with rats

People who live on Cobnar Drive in Norton Lees say a major infestation of ‘sizable’ rats is currently affecting a large part of the area including their street, Derbyshire Lane and Cobnar Road.

Denise Kilner, whose sister lives on the road, said most of the residents already have multiple traps out after calling out the environmental health department or buying them themselves.

But she says that the problem hasn't yet been solved and that the situation is in danger of getting ‘out of hand’.

She said: “The rats are running around in broad daylight which is extremely disturbing as they carry diseases.

“Many residents are frightened to go out of their front door and the rats can be heard squealing in their gardens.

“We think a stronger solution is needed as there are dozens of them in gardens and some homes.”

Denise added many of the residents believe the rats are coming from Graves Park itself, and may have been disturbed due to building work in the area.

“A cottage was recently renovated but I was told it was infested with rats and that they were nesting in it,” she said.

"Maybe that disturbed them but the situation is only getting worse.”

Councillor Mark Jones, cabinet member for environment, streetscene and climate change at Sheffield Council said: "Following requests from two residents on Cobnar Road, we have visited their properties to provide treatment and advice. No further sightings have been reported to us in this general area.

"Where rats are seen around an area and not on one single property, we encourage residents to report this to us so that we are aware and can take steps to investigate and resolve the problem.

"If the problem persists, residents on Cobnar Road should continue speaking to our pest control officers who will support them to manage rat issues."

People can report rat and other pest problems by calling on 0114 2037410 or 2037411, or report online at https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/home/public-health/pest-control.

More information and advice about pest control is also available on the website https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/home/public-health/pest-control-advice.

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