A resident of the Westway area of Creggan has called for action over a derelict house that she says is attracting rats and causing damp in her home. Bridie, who has lived in the area for about 20 years, said the problems started around three months ago and are affecting her quality of life.

Bridie said neighbours have observed rats in the back garden of the empty house, and she fears the infestation has spread inside. Dampness from the property is also affecting adjacent homes, including her own bedroom and a neighbour's bathroom.

She has contacted Derry City and Strabane District Council's Environmental Health department, the Housing Executive, local councillors, and the estate agency that sold the house, but said she has not received satisfactory help. The council told her it cannot cut grass on private land or compel the owner to do so. The Housing Executive said it could not intervene because the property is privately owned.

"I don't go out at night and I definitely don't go out the back at night," Bridie said, adding that she keeps her own property maintained but feels powerless and angry that no one is willing to act.

A council spokesperson said Environmental Health is aware of the issues and an officer has visited the vacant property at Westway. They are following up with the property owner about their responsibility to mitigate environmental and public health risks. The council does not operate a pest control service but has provided advice to householders.

A Housing Executive spokesperson said staff have engaged with the tenant and provided pest control information. They are arranging a damp inspection and will resolve any issues identified.

In a separate development, Arbour Housing has completed the John Street apartment scheme in the city centre with 40 new social homes for people aged 55 and over. The first tenants are moving into the £7.5 million project, which includes 24 two-bedroom and 16 one-bedroom apartments designed for independent living.

The project was part-funded by a £4.7 million grant from the Department for Communities via the Housing Executive. Arbour Housing chairperson Will Chambré said the development is vital given high housing demand, with over 6,500 applicants on the social housing waiting list locally.