Birmingham City Council has been ordered to take urgent action after pleading guilty to charges of rodent infestation at two council flats. The cases, heard at Birmingham Magistrates Court, involved properties in Rea Tower, Mosborough Crescent, and Martineau Tower, Uxbridge Street, Newtown.
First Case: Rea Tower
In the first case, a tenant filed a notice of intention to prosecute the council after repeated complaints about mice throughout their flat. An impact statement read in court said: "There are rodents throughout the property. It is a bit disgusting and it has affected my self-esteem." Environmental health officers confirmed the nuisance was prejudicial to health. Magistrates were told the tenant had contacted the council numerous times but "very little had been done."
Michelle Brown, defending the council, said: "We do plead guilty to this matter and we accept the nuisance has not been remedied." She outlined plans for treatment programmes and pest control measures including sealing gaps.
Second Case: Martineau Tower
The second case involved similar issues at Martineau Tower, where a tenant's victim statement said: "This is causing me concerns for me and my children's health and wellbeing." The council again pleaded guilty to the charge.
Court Orders and Costs
Magistrates granted abatement orders for both properties, requiring the council to complete necessary works within 12 weeks. The council was also ordered to pay costs of £3,500 for each case, totalling £7,000. The orders aim to force the council to address the infestations promptly.
These cases highlight ongoing issues with pest control in Birmingham's council housing, with tenants reporting frustration over delays in action. The council has committed to implementing treatment programmes and structural repairs to prevent future infestations.
