Overgrown Alleyway Raises Rat Concerns in Oxton Neighborhood

As of October 19th, 2025, residents in the Oxton neighborhood of Wirral are raising concerns about the overgrown alleyways behind their homes, which they fear could attract rats. Alison Buckley, a local resident, has been trying to get the Wirral Council to clear the alleyway behind her home, but her efforts have been unsuccessful so far.

Oxton councilor Allan Brame revealed at a recent council meeting that alleyways in the borough are supposed to be cleared three times a year, but it appears that "there has been no attempt to deal with weeds in several alleyways in Oxton." Brame has reported the issue with alleyways in various locations, but no action has been taken.

In response, Liz Grey, the chair of the Environment Committee, stated that clearing alleyways is part of the council's weed control contract, and the council is now taking up the issue with its contractors. Grey added that the council will look at withholding payments if the alleyway treatments are not effective, and the contract is up for renewal next year, allowing for further investigation into the matter.

This is not the first time the council has faced issues with alleyway maintenance. In 2024, Wirral councilors voted for a one-off investment aimed at cleaning up the borough, including clearing up alleyways and "grotspots." However, as Brame pointed out, "if it's not maintained, the weeds and the rubbish come back. It's something you need to keep on top of."