Sightings of rats have increased not only in Slough but also throughout the UK as a whole over the last few years. However, we have taken a proactive approach to the problem and have installed sub-terranean rat baiting stations in council parks, open spaces and lay-bys where there is a heavy infestation of rats. This continous method of treatment has helped to reduce the number of complaints about rats in these areas.

The Environmental Health service ensures that all reports of rubbish attracting rats and mice on private land are dealt with as swiftly as possible. The rubbish is removed using both formal and informal means along with appropriate pest control treatments of the affected land.

Advice is sent out to customers affected on how best to manage their waste so that it does not attract rats and have held similar discussions with community and faith leaders asking them to pass the key messages onto their members.

As part of our enforcement procedures, litter patrols are being undertaken. Initially fortnightly patrols are being undertaken in parks, with the intention of issuing £50 Fixed Penalty Notices to offenders who drop litter or leave food wastes for the wildlife, as to do so only serves to attract and support large rat populations in these areas.