AN overgrown wasteland in Greenock has become a breeding ground for deadly parasites which pose a serious health risk to both children and dogs.

Outraged locals are calling on landowners to clean up the former housing site near Whinhill Primary, which has also become a dumping ground for rogue fly-tippers.

The path cutting through the area is well used by residents, including school children during term time and dog walkers, but in recent weeks many have reported ending up with ticks caused by the dense overgrowth.

Ticks can transmit bacteria that cause conditions such as Lyme disease, which can lead to serious illness in humans and pets if left untreated. Symptoms can include flu-like symptoms, fatigue, muscle and joint pain.

Gran Janet Bannister, who has complained for years about the state of the land at the former Kenilworth Crescent and Holefarm Road, says there needs to be urgent action.

The 60-year-old from Bannockburn Street, who walks her grandchildren to school through the path, said: "We have complained about it for years, but nothing is ever done.

"My dog Millie has had ticks and so have other dogs - and some of the children as well.

"This land could be put to great use by the community if it was cut back and cared for, but no one wants to takes any responsibility for it

"The path is well used and people walk up and down all the time.

"We have had community litter picks and we have done everything we can, but it's bringing the whole area down. The authorities need to get a grip on it."

Neighbour Shelagh Mckay-Jones, who walks her 11-year-old collie-cross Otter in the area, said: "I have found three ticks on Otter, it is not good at all. The path is overgrown and a mess.

"It is very worrying.

"Like other people I would like to see it used better, it could be a brilliant community space for youngsters."

The area has been a gap site since the bulldozers moved in to pull down the flats that once sat there.

Janet added: "I have gone to councillors before but they either just ignore me or do nothing about it.

"Colin Jackson is the first person to actually sit up and listen."

Councillor Jackson has now taken residents' concerns to River Clyde Homes.

He said: "It is badly overgrown. We are all concerned about these ticks and the dangers they pose. We need to make sure the land is properly maintained.

"We will need to look at ways to use the space better, it is a very popular area, used by people living in Overton and other neighbourhoods and it should not be neglected in this way."

River Clyde Homes, which own the land, have promised to carry out a full inspection.

A spokesperson said: “The grass adjacent to the pathway was recently cut and we will continue to inspect the route and maintain it to ensure its safe use.”