A council tenant in Brynteg, Wrexham, has described a nine-year ordeal with a severe rat infestation, during which rodents have been seen coming out of kitchen cupboards and under the bath. The mother, who wishes to remain anonymous, lives with her two children, one of whom is autistic. She claims the problem has persisted for nearly a decade, with rats chewing through units, nesting in the attic, and causing damage to food and belongings.
The tenant says pest control has visited almost weekly for years, but often reports 'no activity', leading the council to question her claims. She has had to throw away thousands of pounds worth of items, including sentimental belongings, due to damage. The family also reported having to use a bucket as a toilet because the children are too scared to use the bathroom, and they have suffered sleepless nights due to the noise.
Wrexham Council recently offered the family a move to Coedpoeth, but the tenant says this would be too far from her children's school and support network, especially given her autistic child's needs. She has provided medical letters and reports but says she does not meet the criteria for a managed move. The council's deputy leader, Cllr David Bithell, acknowledged the complaint and stated that pest control has been sent to investigate and carry out treatment.
