A neighbourhood has been labelled the ‘slums of Hendon’ by residents after changes to refuse collection have seen rubbish piled high in the street.

Barnet Council recently reduced the number of large bins near Queens Mansions, Watford Way, from seven to four and now sends workers to collect once a week rather than daily.

Prakasha Tanna, who owns a flat in the building, was upset to see rubbish pile up on the paths as resident are forced to find alternative places to throw refuse as the bins filled up.

The council informed Mr Tanna, who owns a construction business, it was the duty of the landowners to pay privately for excess rubbish to be moved and the council could only collect bins.

Mr Tanna said: “This awful mess has only come about because the council wrongly thought we needed fewer bins in the area and now we have been told it is up to us to get rid of it.

“Myself and other residents would be forced to go out of pocket to keep our own streets clear, a duty I believe the council should be making good on themselves.

“People’s health is at risk as the rubbish attracts vermin and disease, this must be stopped by making sure there is always somewhere for people to throw their rubbish away properly.”

Mr Tanna wanted to know if the council would be willing to reimburse anyone who paid for the collection of excess waste, which they refused.

According to the council, the number of bins was reduced to discourage misuse of the public bins by residents and businesses – including throwing recyclables and large objects in general waste.

Managing agents of Queens Mansions have recently met with the council to discuss the “root problems” causing the waste issue in the area.

Chair of Barnet Council’s environment committee Cllr Dean Cohen said: “The changes to the bins provided at Queens Mansion were part of the council’s ongoing efforts to reduce their misuse by commercial premises and to encourage residents to recycle more.

“Normally in instances of excessive waste due to misuse of bins owners of premises are charged for its removal.

“As a goodwill gesture, we will be clearing the excess waste on this occasion.”

The clearance is expected to be carried out today (Monday, January 9).