Calderdale Council is being urged to bring back its pest control service amid claims that rat infestations are on the rise.

Coun Osman Khalil made the plea at Monday’s cabinet meeting.

The service began to be phased out over several months under the previous Labour administration in October 2023, and the council website page confirms the service is no longer offered.

Coun Khalil (Ind, Park) criticised that decision and called for changes.

“I am flabbergasted that the previous administration stopped the pest control in 2023, now I speak not only for Park ward but pretty much across Calderdale as a whole,” he said.

Coun Khalil said pest control was not simply about removing pests but about protecting homes, businesses, public spaces, health and the environment.

When pest problems are not dealt with quickly and effectively, they grow into bigger problems that are more expensive to solve, he said.

He urged the new Reform administration to restore the service.

“Residents should be able to feel safe and comfortable without the fear of rodents taking over and spreading disease.

“Bringing pest control back would also demonstrate that the cabinet is listening to the concerns of residents and taking practical action to improve the local environment,” he said.

He found support from cabinet members who said what could be done would be explored.

Cabinet member for community safety and enforcement, Coun Paul Hawkaluk, said: “The scheme to scrap it was at best short sighted.

“We now have vermin as an issue.”

He said he would work with Environmental Health officers over the issue.

“Let’s look at ways we can tackle this, what the options are,” he said.