Palacerigg has opened after month long shutdown

The stricken facility was originally intended to have a week long shutdown but this was lengthened for safety’s sake as pest control officers continued to treat the area.

It’s emerged that ferrets were brought in to cull the rats as bait was judged too great a risk for children and pets visiting the area.

Staff have spent the last few days re-opening the facilities and only the poultry pen remains off-limits.

Head of Environmental Assets Ken Forbes said: “We were disappointed at having to close but public health and animal safety had to come first.

“To prevent future difficulties, we are asking our visitors to ensure they disponse of their litter responsibly.

“By limiting food sources, we can better and more easily control vermin and keep our facilities open.”