A RAT infestation is causing misery to residents in a Johnstone street.

Homeowners in Finch Place have complained of the vermin being spotted in their gardens over the last month.

They fear the rats may be nesting in a pile of black bags that were dumped more than a year ago.

Helen Maxwell, who is one of the concerned Finch Place residents, told The Gazette: “We have babies and toddlers who play out in their back gardens here and we’re also worried about our pet dogs.

“There are also a few houses lying empty in this street, so we’re concerned the rats might get into those properties.”

Residents claim Linstone Housing Association, which owns land around their homes, should be responsible for dealing with the problem but is not willing to help.

Councillor Andy Steel, who represents Johnstone South and Elderslie, said he has notified Renfrewshire Council’s environmental services department about the issue after being contacted by constituents.

He added: “They responded within 48 hours to get a team out for a look to see what can be done but I would ask Linstone to step up to the plate as well.

“They own the land and will be responsible for its upkeep, so not getting involved doesn’t help anyone. Dealing with this kind of problem effectively will need everyone pulling their weight and making sure the whole area is kept up to standard.”

Lewis Nesbitt, chair of the Spateston Tenants’ and Residents’ Association, said: “This story is a reflection of a wider issue where homeowners are stuck in the middle between Linstone Housing and Renfrewshire Council.

“Spateston has a long and complicated relationship with Linstone Housing. The regulations they are under contribute to almost nothing being done. They really need to consider what is best for Spateston and step up or step away from factoring the estate and allow tenants and residents to get a service they can depend on.”

Linstone Housing Association said it has advised residents to contact the council’s environmental services team about the issue.

A spokesperson added: “Once environmental services have assessed the situation, we will liaise with them if there is anything required by us to help in eradicating the problem.”

Renfrewshire Council said staff have visited the site on two occasions and been unable to confirm an infestation.

A spokesperson added: “We will continue to liaise with residents and Linstone Housing Association to ensure the area is safe and encourage residents to report any instances to Linstone in the first instance.”

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