Cold weather, construction, closed eateries and a decrease in demand for exterminators are creating a perfect storm for rodents in Melbourne’s CBD, say local rat-catchers.

The demolition of Docklands’ Central Pier, and the subsequent closure of its local venues, is making the waterfront a hotspot for rats.

“There were a lot of cafes, restaurants, pubs … and they would engage pest controllers to keep on top of those things,” said Pest Control Empire director Tim Clinnick.