Three years after the phasing out of Calderdale Council’s pest control service, a councillor is urging it should be brought back, claiming rat infestations are on the rise.
Councillor Osman Khalil urged the council and Cabinet to “seriously consider” bring back a pest control service.
He raised the issue asking a question at Calderdale Council’s September Cabinet meeting.
Councillor Khalil criticised that decision and called for changes.
“I am flabbergasted that the previous administration stopped the pest control in 2023 now I speak not only for Park ward but pretty much across Calderdale as a whole,” he said.
He said pest control was not simply about removing pests but about protecting homes, businesses, public spaces, health and the environment.
When pest problems are not dealt with quickly and effectively, they grow into bigger problems more expensive to solve, he said.
He urged the new Reform UK administration, which won control of the council at May’s local elections, to restore the service.
“Residents should be able to feel safe and comfortable without the fear of rodents taking over and spreading disease,” he said.
“Bringing pest control back would also demonstrate that the Cabinet is listening to the concerns of residents and taking practical action to improve the local environment.”
