OVERFLOWING raw sewage may flood through a new children's play area if Barnet Council presses ahead with plans to install equipment in a Hendon park, according to residents.

People living close to the designated land, claimed by council chiefs to be in Brent Park, said the area is unsuitable and could pose a health risks to youngsters who use it.

Drainage problems around the green space, in Southbourne Crescent, have resulted in a manhole raising up during heavy rain and releasing faeces and toilet paper streaming down a path.

The lower end of the park also floods when the Dollis Brook overflows, which residents say makes it impossible to walk through.

Norman Rose, of Southbourne Crescent, said: “The council officers know there is a problem here with flooding but they just don't listen.

“The sewage and noise that will come from this make it impractical to be here. If they end up putting tarmac down it will just further reduce the water absorption.

“We feel they are deliberately drawing our complaints out so they can get the work done. We feel they don't give a damn and they are going through the motions.

“They have the power so they think they can ride roughshod over us.”

Many people are also upset because they feel the consultation documents referred to installing a play area in Brent Park, while many consider the area now earmarked as being in Brookside Walk.

Most believe areas in Brent Park, on the opposite side of Bell Lane, and on the other side of the North Circular, would be more appropriate locations for the play equipment.

Neighbours also claim they wanted an area for toddlers and young children, not the “teenagers and yobs” they now feel will be attracted.

Azita Moman, whose house backs on to where the play area will be positioned, said: “We are concerned about having kids hanging around and getting up to no good.

“At the moment it is a peaceful area but we live very close and we are going to hear anybody in the park. There are much more suitable areas that don't back on to people's houses.”

A council statement claims the new play equipment is being installed “at the request of local residents” as part of the Leader's List scheme.

It also said staff are working closely with Thames Water and the Environment Agency to “resolve and manage” any flooding issues in the rest of the park.

“Extensive public led consultation was carried out in the Brent Park area, with the location of the play area chosen directly with residents,” the statement added.

“Although other locations were considered, the council endorsed the current location as it benefits from being over looked by housing with good footpath links to the local area - in line with the wishes of the local community.

“During exceptional rainfall, we are aware the area can become prone to flooding; however, the site is placed away from the areas most likely to flood with the design of the play area taking account of this.”