A COLNE Valley man is calling for action to deal with a stagnant dam that is seeping water into his basement.
Wilf Hansom , of Kiln Hill, Back O' Dam, Slaithwaite, says
the former dam is a dumping ground for bottles, rubbish and half-eaten takeaways and is a health hazard.
His dog recently caught and killed a large rat which had been living in the former dam.
"It is time that action is taken to clear up this stinking rat-infested dumping ground," said Mr Hansom, 73.
The retired plumber and heating engineer, who carves wood as a hobby, says the dampness in his basement is ruining the wood he stores there and is damaging his tools and equipment.
Mr Hansom said the dam, which was formerly used by a dyeworks, was drained four or five years ago and had been cleared out annually.
But he says that for the last couple of years this has not happened and it has become an eyesore.
Mr Hansom has written to Kirklees Mayor Clr Margaret Fearnley, local councillors, his MP, Kali Mountford, and several Kirklees Council departments calling for action.
A Kirklees spokeswoman said: "Pest control say no rats have been reported since 2004, but we will put down bait again, if necessary.
"Environmental waste officers are investigating Mr Hansom's litter complaint.
"They have also been talking to the owners of the dam about their plans.
"A council officer has visited Mr Hansom to talk through his concerns."
