Resident calls for action on bins left out in Rutherglen streets that are attracting rats

A resident in Rutherglen is calling for action to address the issue of bins being left out on the streets, attracting rats. Nicola Costello has raised concerns about overflowing bins and litter being dumped beside them, leading to a buildup of waste attracting rodents. Areas particularly affected include Farme Castle Court, Barnflat Street, and Baronald Street. Costello highlighted the problem, stating that the situation is turning the area into a dumping ground, with people leaving all sorts of household waste next to the bins belonging to residents and local businesses that are left out on pavements around the clock.

Costello described the situation as “horrible,” noting that despite some efforts to clean up, new waste appears daily, leading to sightings of rats in the area. She pointed out that if the bins were put away properly, it could reduce the dumping behaviour. Costello has reached out to the housing officer and local authorities to address the issue and reinforce the need for proper waste disposal practices among residents and businesses to maintain cleanliness in the neighbourhood.

The two SNP councillors representing Rutherglen Central and North ward, Councillor Janine Calikes and Councillor Andrea Cowan, have brought the matter to the Council’s attention following complaints about the state of Rutherglen Main Street, often congested with commercial waste. Unlike other councils, South Lanarkshire Council does not provide a commercial waste service, requiring individual businesses to manage their waste disposal arrangements.

Efforts are now being made by South Lanarkshire Council to address the ongoing issue, with plans to remind residents of the importance of returning bins to storage areas after collection. Kevin Carr, Head of Facilities, Waste and Grounds, confirmed that Waste Education will communicate with residents to emphasise the proper bin management practices.

Nicola Costello has also engaged with local representatives and authorities to seek support in addressing the waste management issue. Despite assurances of clean-up efforts, the problem persists, prompting Costello to call for more proactive measures to tackle the root cause of the waste accumulation problem in Rutherglen.

In conclusion, the issue of waste management and bin control in Rutherglen has sparked concerns among residents like Nicola Costello, who are witnessing the impact of improper waste disposal on the cleanliness and hygiene of the neighbourhood. Collaborative efforts involving residents, local authorities, and businesses are crucial to finding sustainable solutions to address the rat infestation issue and maintain a clean environment for the community to live in.