Today's Metro is aflame with news from the Taxpayer's Alliance that fortnightly bin collections are to blame for the increase in rodent infestations from 2007 to 2008.
"Councils reported 378,000 rat infestations last year – up 15 per cent on 2007.
From this, the National Pest Technicians Association estimated there were 650,000 call outs – the most since it began its survey nine years ago. The NPTA said bird food, littering and fly-tipping were also to blame for the increase. But its report added: 'Poorly secured household waste is a further problem. It is made worse where alternate weekly collections for entirely commendable waste minimisation purposes are not fully embraced or well managed.' "
Against this measured analysis of the available statistics the Local Government Association put up this well thought out and measured argument:
"But the Local Government Association said there was 'no evidence' for the claims.
'When I see a rat that can pole vault into a wheelie bin, then I will believe alternate weekly collections can cause populations to increase,' said deputy chairman Richard Kemp."
Nice to know somebody that sensitive and aware of public concerns is advising our Local Authorities. I believe all Worcester Park residents have a weekly "brown bin" collection but let me know if you've had any bad experiences.
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