(Image: Gateshead Council)
A large fly-tip containing syringes, gas canisters, tyres and other hazardous waste has been cleared in a major clean-up operation.
The dump in Gateshead’s Barley Mow area contained large amounts of paint, plastic and medical equipment.
The waste threatened public health, the environment and emergency crews, particularly if it caught fire.
The Barley Mow fly-tip was cleared after officials warned the dumped waste could endanger residents, children and emergency crews (Image: Gateshead Council)
Michael Lamb, service director for environment at Gateshead Council, said: "This is not about dampening community spirit.
"The materials found on this site went far beyond what would be considered suitable for a bonfire and we want to remind everyone that dumping rubbish is an environmental crime.
"Among the waste were items which, if set alight, could cause serious harm to people, create significant environmental damage and place additional pressure on emergency services.
Syringes, tyres and gas canisters removed from Barley Mow site (Image: Gateshead Council)
"We also know that children have been playing on this site which is incredibly unsafe."
He said: "As a council, we have a responsibility to keep our local communities safe.
"Where large piles of rubbish are left, particularly those containing hazardous waste, we have no option but to take action.
"We would encourage residents to celebrate responsibly and help us by reporting any concerns about waste being dumped in their community."
Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service backed the council’s clean-up.
Group manager Andy Lillford said: "Fly-tipping and the dumping of illegal waste present a real challenge for the Fire and Rescue Service.
"As we approach Bonfire Night, this is one of the busiest times of the year for our firefighters.
"Anti-social behaviour fires draw our vital lifesaving resources away from genuine emergencies where the public may need our help, such as house fires and road traffic collisions.
"We are working closely with our partners including Gateshead Council and Northumbria Police to tackle ASB and wider issues.
"All our firefighters and fire engines are equipped with body worn video cameras and CCTV.
"We strongly encourage the public to visit organised fireworks and bonfire events."
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The Barley Mow site has hosted bonfires before, but the amount and type of rubbish dumped this time made it especially dangerous.
Gas canisters and medical waste could have caused serious harm if they caught fire.
Gateshead Council spends more than £400,000 a year clearing fly-tipping.
The council has warned that dumping rubbish is illegal, risks public safety and could lead to enforcement action.