A “no man’s land” blighted by rubbish build-up was cleared as part of a council day of action following concerns around public health.

Harrow Council workers cleared up a space in Long Elms near High Road, Harrow Weald, following numerous complaints from residents and community groups.

The council said there was confusion about who had responsibility for the land but that it felt it had to act as the situation had become so severe.

A spokeswoman for Harrow Council, said: “This disgusting eyesore has been accumulated over a long period of time.

“This is ultimately no man’s land – it’s not owned by anyone. And while it’s not our land to maintain, we have a duty of care for our residents, and it was cleared this week because of the risk to public health.”

She added that the council has handed a series of enforcement warnings to freeholders, businesses and residents who use the land.

And she said it will continue to monitor the situation and will take the necessary action against those who are caught dumping waste there.

The work was praised by various online community groups such as #Fixit Harrow Network and the Neighbourhood Watch Harrow Network.

Members said they hope to see similar initiatives in other parts of the borough affected by fly-tipping.