Welwyn Garden City resident distressed after rat infestation

Rubbish has been piling up outside Howard House, attracting the rodents which have now made their way inside the building.

One resident told the Welwyn Hatfield Times that pest control services were called in to deal with the issue, while concerns were also raised about them getting into nearby business premises.

Residents were forced to call in pest control services after rat problems. (Image: Supplied)

"I have recently faced a distressing ordeal where we had to seek pest control services due to rats infiltrating our property," the resident said. 

"These rodents are frequently spotted in the yard, likely using it as a nesting ground. Given the high rise nature of our building, it is highly probable that they have access to every other property.

"Furthermore, the yard borders several food establishments, many of which habitually leave their back doors ajar, especially during warmer months. This poses a significant threat to public health and safety."

Residents are calling for action to remove the rubbish. (Image: Supplied)

Promises of a deep clean in April have been made by property managers, The Crown Estate, but Howard House residents remain sceptical as to whether this will actually take place.

"Having lived in Howard House for more than a year now, I have seen no improvements," the resident continued. 

"This is especially disheartening considering Ebenezer Howard's vision of a garden city to provide respite from urban squalor."

Rubbish at the back of Howard House. (Image: Supplied)

When asked about the issue, a spokesperson for Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council said: "The service yard at the rear of Howard House is owned by The Crown Estate.

"The Crown Estate are not required to maintain the service yard area and unfortunately have not been doing so.

"We sympathise with the resident’s concerns and while we cannot take enforcement action against The Crown Estate, we have in the past done what we can to address the issue of waste being improperly disposed including carrying out pest control treatments and litter picks."

The Welwyn Hatfield Times reached out to The Crown Estate, but is yet to receive a response.

This newspaper understands that the property in question was held by a company which has since been dissolved, meaning the property is held subject to escheat. 

Because of this, The Crown Estate is not able to take any action that might be construed as an act of management, possession or ownership in relation to the property – such as undertaking repairs or carrying out remedial work.

The Crown Estate cannot consent to works being carried out by a third party, it will not interfere with any works being carried out by an appropriate body, such as the local authority.