A community space has reopened after long restoration works and has been earmarked for village green status.

Hitchin Close Green in Harold Hill was reopened by Havering Council on June 20 in a ribbon-cutting ceremony, following long restoration works in May.

The site is one of five that the council has earmarked to receive village green status that would protect it from any housing developments in perpetuity.

It took two days to remove dumped rubbish, litter and overgrown vegetation from the weir running through the site, the council said.

Paul McGeary, Havering Council's cabinet member for Housing, added: “It’s been incredible to see the work taking place across the site, which now feels so much safer and more welcoming for residents."

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The project was carried out by contractors Mears and K&T Heating, council services and volunteers from community groups such as the Harold Hill Wombles.

Work included clearing overgrown brambles, shrubs and weeds and installing fencing along the road.

A new archway has been put in along the Noak Hill Road entrance.