A Harrow councillor hopes a campaign to tackle casual labour in his ward will have lasting success following a designated ‘action day’ in a popular pick-up area.

Cllr Nitesh Hirani, who represents Kenton East, took part in a project that aims to protect the space in Honeypot Lane next to Queensbury Park.

This section of the road – and the surrounding area – has becoming a stomping ground for those seeking, or taking advantage of, casual labour.

Cllr Hirani explained that it is an offence to pick up labourers from this site, and the action day gave police and other authorities the chance to investigate those flouting the rules.

“This is a collective issue and it’s something that affects everyone who lives and works near there,” he said.

“Members of the public have told the council they are scared to walk through there in the morning.

“There are a host of illegal activities happening and people were using the bushes as a toilet.

“We have to change this and try to make a difference. The last thing we want to do is encourage this behaviour; we want to target it and eradicate it.”

He said the practice of casual labour is a far-reaching problem that can have a knock-on effect.

“People come from overseas for just a few weeks. The transport is arranged, and they are told they have accommodation ready,” he explained.

“Work is not always guaranteed, and the accommodation is sometimes nothing more than a mattress in a crowded room.”

This, he noted, can have a harmful effect on those duped into coming over as well as those already living in Harrow.

The targeted area is covered by a public space protection order, which means nobody can operate larger vehicles, such as minibuses, there without written permission from Harrow Council or Transport for London.

Additionally, it is forbidden to approach anyone to offer, or intend to offer, them casual employment.