A mother has shared her distress over a nine-year ordeal living with a rat infestation that has plagued her home in Brynteg, Wrexham. The woman, who chose to remain anonymous, is a council tenant with two children, one of whom is autistic. She expressed frustration over Wrexham Council’s failure to address the ongoing rat problem or provide alternative housing.
Describing the situation as “hell,” she revealed that the rodents frequently emerge from kitchen cupboards and hideouts, causing her children to fear using the bathroom. Despite the family’s efforts to maintain cleanliness, she suspects a nearby rat colony has established their home as part of its territory. The issue has persisted for nearly a decade, with previous tenants facing similar challenges.
The infestation has infiltrated various parts of the house, including the attic, floorboards, walls, and food storage areas. Pest control visits have been frequent, but the council often dismisses the complaints, leading the mother to feel neglected and unsupported. The rodents have caused significant damage, including spoiling food supplies and disrupting the household’s sleep with their constant activity.
The mother highlighted the emotional toll on her autistic child, who struggles with the sensory overload caused by the rats’ presence. The unbearable noise at night has led to sleep disturbances and distressing nightmares for the children. Despite some attempts by the council to address the situation, such as suggesting a relocation to Coedpoeth, the impracticality of the proposed move due to school and support network considerations remains a barrier.
Efforts to secure alternative housing based on medical and educational needs have been unsuccessful, leaving the family in a difficult situation. The mother emphasized the importance of proximity to school and support services for her child’s well-being. She expressed frustration at the lack of viable housing options offered by the council, stressing the urgency of finding a resolution to end her children’s suffering.
In response, Wrexham Council’s Deputy Leader and housing lead, Cllr David Bithell, acknowledged the tenant’s concerns and confirmed pest control measures had been implemented. He stated that housing offers are determined by factors such as demand and suitability, aiming to provide the most appropriate solutions based on these criteria.
