FED-UP residents in Johnstone claim overflowing bins near their homes have led to a rat infestation.

Tenants in Buchanan Way said they have spotted vermin in their gardens due to a growing pile of garbage being left untouched at a nearby bin shed.

Fiona Wilson, who is among those to complain about the rubbish problem, said it is getting “really out of hand” as waste is not being recycled correctly.

She told The Gazette: “There is a bin shed at the back of my house and it is only used by carers for one of the residents who lives on the street.

“All of the bins have got mixed stuff in them and there are around 20 black bags filled with rubbish on the ground.

“There are now rats and broken bottles.”

Fiona, 54, said Renfrewshire Council, Loretto Housing and health and social care charity Turning Point, which employs the carers, have all been made aware of the issue but a lack of action has left residents increasingly frustrated.

She added: “This has been going on for at least six months but nobody seems to want to take responsibility.

“The carers are just putting black bags on top of black bags.

“It’s becoming a breeding ground for rats and, every time you turn around, you see one coming out from somewhere.

“Everyone here is fed up with the situation and it is just getting out of control now.”

Loretto Housing pledged to take action to clear the area after being alerted by The Gazette.

A spokesperson said: “We’re now in touch with Renfrewshire Council and have arranged for any excess waste to be removed.

“We’ll also carry out regular inspections of the area to make sure this doesn’t happen again.

“Any tenant who needs help to dispose of their rubbish in the bin area should get in touch with us and we’ll do our best to help.”

A council spokesperson added: “This property is owned by Loretto Housing. It is up to the housing association to organise a clean-up if required and to speak to their residents about how to deal with rubbish and recycling properly.”

Turning Point declined to comment when contacted by The Gazette.