Barnet Council's Licensing and General Purposes Committee has heard concerns raised about the prevalence of rats in open spaces and the management of public rubbish disposal, with councillors seeking to understand the focus of pest control efforts and how to encourage responsible rubbish disposal.
During a meeting on Monday, June 1, 2026, councillors discussed the Environmental Health, Health and Safety, and Pest Control Annual Report for 2025-2026. Councillor Jennifer Grocock questioned whether pest control efforts were focused on residential properties or open spaces, and what measures could be taken to encourage the public to dispose of their rubbish responsibly. The concerns were prompted by inquiries from Councillor Grocock regarding the report's findings and by Councillor [Name Redacted] highlighting the issue of rats in open spaces.
Councillor [Name Redacted] also emphasised the need for greater inter-departmental cooperation, particularly with housing departments, to address issues stemming from landlords who may not be actively managing their properties. This was cited as a factor contributing to pest issues, with rats making homes in properties. The importance of education and working across departments was emphasised, with examples given of how construction work can disturb pest habitats. Councillor [Name Redacted] further suggested collaborating with other departments to encourage responsible rubbish disposal in open spaces during busy periods.
Beyond construction work, the issue of landlords not actively managing their properties was raised as another factor contributing to the disturbance of pest habitats in open spaces.
The discussion took place during the review of the Environmental Health, Health and Safety, and Pest Control Annual Report for 2025-2026, which can be found in the Public reports pack for the meeting.
