FURIOUS residents are demanding action over mounds of rubbish outside flats which are attracting vermin and fly-tipping.

Piles of domestic waste, including overflowing refuse bags and furniture, has regularly been appearing outside the council-owned properties in a converted factory in St Mary Road, Walthamstow, since 2006.

This has created a health hazard and led to problems with foxes and rats, according to neighbours.

An enforcement notice was issued to residents last May in attempt to solve the problem, but the Walthamstow Village Residents’ Association (WVRA) reported ongoing problems on December 15.

Pictures taken by Dr Sigi Dlabal, of nearby Bishop’s Close, show rubbish built up again over the Christmas holiday and spilled on to the pavement.

Dr Dlabal believes there are too few bins for the number of properties in the block.

She said: "The council did not act in any way that stopped the nightmare scenario local residents had to endure.

"This filth and rubbish it is an utter shame not only to us but also to our guests who visited our homes over the Christmas period."

But Raymond Swingler of (WVRA) said it is the managing agents of the property and tenants who are to blame for not following waste management laws.

Gareth Jones, the council's head of environment, said the council issued warning letters to tenants in the building as soon as Mr Swingler made his complaint.

In an email to residents he said: “Unfortunately over the bank holiday period a large amount of waste was placed out both filling the bins and the private footway next to the block.

"Letters and notices were previously served, in early 2009, on the occupiers and managing agents of the block and these were complied with.

"Further notices will be served both with regard to removal of the waste and containment of any future waste."

Mr Jones said that it is only if tenants fail to comply with the new notices that the council can fine them or take legal action.

Mr Jones said he has now assigned a manager to personally oversee waste issues at the building.

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