As previously reported, 50 residents living in homes near Glebe Gardens in the town centre signed a letter to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council calling for “urgent” action to tackle the “out of control” rat infestation, after the pests began entering their homes, nesting in roof spaces and rotting in cavity walls.
Now, it seems that this is not just a problem in the town centre, as a number of rats have been spotted scurrying very close to the premises of both McDonald’s and KFC in the Leisure Park, in Worting Road.
These pictures and videos show numerous rodents running around on the slate chippings just beyond the outdoor eating area at McDonald’s at the Leisure Park.
SEE ALSO: Rat infestation in Basingstoke is ‘public health concern’
These photos and videos were taken by a Gazette reporter who had visited the restaurant and sat at a table outside to enjoy their lunch.
The Gazette contacted McDonald’s for a comment, and a spokesperson said: “We take cleanliness and hygiene very seriously and our Basingstoke – Leisure Park restaurant implements a number of measures to ensure the restaurant maintains its high standards.
“The restaurant employs a maintenance crew who keep the surrounding area outside the restaurant spotless and pest-control experts carry out routine inspections of the site, and they’ve confirmed there’s been no evidence of pest-related activity in the restaurant.
“The team continues to work with the landlords regarding these sightings, but the restaurant itself has not been impacted.”
The Basingstoke Leisure Park restaurant has been awarded a food hygiene rating of five and McDonald’s confirmed that it scored 100 per cent in a third-party food safety verification visit, which was conducted two weeks ago.
@basingstokegazette Rats have been spotted near McDonald’s in the Leisure Park #rats #mcdonalds #ConSantanderConecto ♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim
The Gazette also contacted KFC for a comment, and a spokesperson said: “We’re aware that some unwanted guests have been spotted within the retail park.
“The EHO [environmental health officer] and pest control have visited and confirmed that our 5-star rated restaurant is pest-free however, we’re continuing to work with the local council’s pest control team to solve the wider issue in the surrounding area.”
The Gazette also contacted Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, who are yet to provide a comment.
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
