Rats and illegal dumping in Rock Terrace

One of the residents, who did not want to be named, said the illegally dumped waste has also given rise to a high number of rats in the area.

“It’s disgusting,” said the resident. “I know this is no longer the responsibility of the council but all we are asking for is a little help.

“You wouldn’t believe the number of rats I have seen in the street in recent weeks - there have been so many.”

A spokesperson for Derry City and Strabane District Council said that it was aware of the issue of illegal waste in waste lands in the Rock Terrace area. The spokesperson explained that the recent installation of gates at the entrance to the homes has meant that access to the area is controlled by the residents and only those with properties backing onto the area having access.

“Regular communication has taken place between residents and the council since the installation of the gates advising them that responsibility for the land is no longer the legal responsibility of the council. Council is keen to work with the residents in an effort to resolve the issue,” said the spokesperson.

The spokesperson added that the council was working hard to alleviate the issue of indiscriminate dumping across the council area by actively encouraging the public to dispose of excess waste at local Recycling Centres or to avail of the Council’s bulky waste service. The spokesperson said all items of indiscriminate dumping are checked for identification so that a fixed penalty notice can be issued.