A site neglected for years and described by residents as a 'shanty town' belongs to Transport for London (TfL), not Waltham Forest council, it has emerged. 

Set underneath Wadham Road on the border of Highams Park and Walthamstow, the derelict site formally home to two rough sleepers over a four month period, may finally be cleared. 

Earlier this month, the council appeared to claim it owned the the land and said it would be taking action to clear the site, but after several visits by environmental officers, they discovered it belongs to TfL. 

After several enquiries into the piece of land, TfL has proclaimed ownership and the homeless men will be removed shortly.  

 A TfL spokeswoman said: "The occupants on TfL land under Wadham Road in Waltham Forest will be served with eviction notices shortly.

"Once the occupants have left the site, we will take swift action to clear and secure the site."

The two middle-aged men of Polish nationaility became desperate after falling on hard times including a marital breakdown, and alleged exploitation of labour by two seperate groups of travellers. 

A 48 year-old man who would only give his name as Robert said he had been living at the site for four months and was joined one month into his stay by a second Polish man.  

After visiting the site today, some their personal possessions have gone and the makeshift shower has been dismantled.

Bedding materials including duvets and mattresses remain as well as tons of waste including plastic bottles, cigarette ends, clothing and electrical goods such as an old washing machine and DVD player.   

Conservative councillor for Hale and Highams Park Sheree Rackham would like the site renovated into a workshop space for residents looking to build on their vocational skills.