Rats, cockroaches and college students now a part of ‘unnatural’ metropolis suburb furnishings

Rats, cockroaches and rubbish in an area overrun with students isn’t putting people off living there.

One couple has even declared: “I don’t think we would leave”.

But Cathays, a neighbourhood next to Cardiff University, has made headlines after locals complained of rodents, mess and even cockroaches. Some are fighting to “reclaim” the suburb amid huge litter problems and scurrying rats, but they face an uphill battle.

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Locals have previously told of fly-tipping blighting streets and rats darting in and out of gardens. Terry Davies, a resident, said there was a big issue of people leaving rubbish behind.

“There are rats everywhere,” he said. “If you stand still, particularly after dark, a rat will cross your vision.”

The grim accounts are backed up by the data, with pest controllers dealing with thousands of rats, cockroaches and flees across the Welsh capital. But according to one pest controller, Cathays is the worst, with 60% of properties having a rodent issue, including some who might not even know it.

Dana Taite and Andrew Stride, a couple in their sixties who have lived in Cathays for 35 years, told WalesOnline that rats and rubbish were part of the package. The pair said they were happy living in the ever-evolving Welsh capital and wouldn’t go elsewhere.

Dana said: “Cathays has changed from what I would have said is a normal neighbourhood to a demographic which is a bit more unnatural. There is a sense that things are more temporary as students aren’t here for long enough to become embedded in the community.

“I would also say that cafes can sometimes come and go. But that happens to cafes everywhere. And I’m still within walking distance to the town centre, several cinemas, theatre and the hospital which is important.”

Andrew added: “I do tend to disagree with the stereotype that Cathays isn’t a nice place to be. I’ve never really had rats or anything like that. I consider the seagulls to be just as bad. Obviously you see rats. You see them in lots of places as it’s a city. But you’re never too far away from a rat, are you?”

Known for its lively atmosphere and buzzing nightlife, more than 12,919 students call Cathay home. But plenty of young professionals, retirees and working families have also settled there.

Some told how the area is evolving, with trendy coffee shops and quirky businesses popping up. But you can also find greasy spoons and takeaways catering to hungry students seeking a late-night meal.

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