Council to investigate rat infestation around Boxer's Lake (From Enfield Independent)

Council to investigate rat infestation around Boxer's Lake

2:20pm Thursday 11th October 2012 in News By Hermione Wright

Enfield Borough Council will investigate a rat infestation following a story in the Enfield Independent. 

John Harding, who lives in Corby Crescent in Oakwood, alerted the paper yesterday to the increasing number of rats surrounding Boxer’s Lake, which is a two-minute walk from his house.

The 66-year-old, who has lived in his home for 30 years, said rats have been steadily increasing in number for the past five years but the situation is now worse than ever.

The cabinet member for environment, Councillor Chris Bond, said: “It's a shame Mr Harding didn't let us know there was a problem but we'd like to thank the Enfield Independent for bringing this matter to our attention.

“We will be investigating this matter and will take the necessary steps to deal with any infestation of rats in this area."

Mr Harding is pleased the council has pledged to act, although he is not confident the situation will be addressed.

He spotted a neighbour cutting back brambles around Boxer’s Lake, which Mr Harding believes are providing a safe haven for the creatures.

He said: “It would be lovely if the council took action.”

Only today, he saw a “nice fat” rat running into his back garden from Boxer’s Lake.

He said: “I am looking out of my kitchen window and I can see a rat running along my garden. He sat by the apple tree – you have got it from the horse's mouth.”

He is concerned people in the area could contract the sometimes fatal Weil’s disease – which is passed from rats to people by water, if the infestation is not addressed.