The move came about last month following successful negotiations between New Mossley Community Group, local bonfire builders, Newtownabbey Council and the Housing Executive.

Agreement between all the parties saw a private contractor called in to remove around 300 car and lorry tyres from the site at Ballyearl Drive.

Jack Shaw, Chairman of the Community Group, commented: "This is a very positive step in the right direction and shows the commitment of all involved to reduce the damage caused to the environment from traditional bonfires. It should also be acknowledged that the people on the ground are making positive changes for the benefit of their community.

"The New Mossley bonfire builders take great pride when erecting their bonfire and it is well attended every year by many visitors to the community. The long term goal of all the groups involved is to have a situation where no tyres are used on bonfires."

Mr Shaw thanked the council and the Housing Executive for their assistance in removing the tyres from the site.

A spokesperson for the council added: "This is a very positive step in community relations and one which will reduce the damage caused to our environment. The council would encourage everyone involved with the building of bonfires to work towards tyre free sites."

It is understood that a number of tyres which were already in place at the base of the bonfire remain, but all others dumped at the site have been removed.