Joel Deason pointing out the size of the hemlock plant

POISONOUS plants have invaded an estate for the second summer in a row, leaving residents worried that they will never be able to fully eradicate the “health hazard”.

Neighbours on the Park View estate in Highbury have raised the alarm again after spotting hemlock around the green spaces by their flats and the communal children’s playground.

The metres-tall white flowering plants were removed last year but have have sprung up once more, causing concern for both children and pets. They have been identified as hemlock, which is unusual in urban areas, and can be toxic if ingested. “Some of the plants I’m seeing are in an area that was densely populated last year, having been treated last year, and fenced off to prevent the spread,” said Joel Deason, secretary of the residents’ association.

He added: “It also seems that anyone and everyone who might be able to help is on holiday until next week.”

A spokesperson for Islington Council said: “Our teams will arrange for the plants to be removed as quickly as possible and take appropriate steps to manage any risk to residents while this work is carried out. We will also continue to monitor the area and keep residents informed of any further action required.

“There is no evidence that the hemlock has been brought to the site in the topsoil as part of the new build and landscaping work that has been taking place.”