Rubbish dumping ground is 'becoming a serious health hazard'

RUBBISH that has been mounting up outside the site of a former pub is becoming a major health hazard, say residents.

The litter first started to get dumped outside the site after The Reindeer pub was demolished last year and people in the area are concerned it is attracting rats.

Lisa Maclay, a member of Northwood Residents' Association, said: "There has been rubbish accumulating there for months and months and it looks absolutely dreadful.

"It's extremely unsightly and obviously a health hazard. I have heard there are rats in there."

However, the site owners are registered in Cyprus so they are exempt from UK legislation.

Kathryn Sparks, deputy director of environment and consumer protection for Hillingdon Council, said: "We are aware of the problem at the site of the old Reindeer pub and are working to resolve it as soon as possible.

"As the waste is on private land, we are legally required to serve notice before removing it. A noticed was served on September 3 and the waste will be removed if not cleared within 21 days."

Mrs Maclay added: "From our point of view it has been going on for long enough now so if the council are able to do something about it we expect them to take quick action once they are legally able to do so."

Northwood councillor, Scott Seaman-Digby, also said he will be pushing for the area to be fenced in the coming weeks if the refuse problem persists.