In a significant victory against fly-tipping, Braintree District Council’s Street Scene Protection Team has successfully prosecuted an individual through the court.
On 2nd November 2023, a 39-year-old businessman residing in Great Notley, Braintree, was sentenced at Colchester Magistrates Court for two counts of fly-tipping.
In November 2021, following work carried out at a property by his company, he unlawfully deposited a barbeque and was subsequently caught on camera fly-tipping builders’ waste onto a public footpath in Bradwell, Braintree, in the same month.
The individual had previously entered a guilty plea and faced the court for sentencing. He received a fine of £3,231.00, was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £190.00, and cover the Council’s costs of £4,399.30.
“When it comes to fly-tipping, we take a zero-tolerance approach. We investigate all incidents to look for evidence to try and hold the individuals to account for their irresponsible action.
I am pleased that on this occasion, we secured a positive outcome to the offences that were committed, demonstrating that we take things seriously, and the fines issued by the court will help to deter similar offences from being committed.”
Braintree District Council emphasizes that residents must ensure that waste is disposed of correctly when using a third party for disposal.
Here are some essential checks people can carry out to protect themselves and the environment:
- If you use a trader to remove your waste, ask to see their Waste Carriers Licence Registration Number issued by the Environment Agency.
Ask for their waste carrier number and vehicle details and contact the Environment Agency for a free instant waste carrier check.
Ensure that you receive a transfer notice or receipt before your waste is taken away.
- Check where your waste is going.
Being a registered waste carrier means the person can legally remove your rubbish, but you still need to check what is going to happen to it. A legitimate waste carrier should not object to you asking these questions.
- Protect yourself by taking care with your waste.
Make a note of who you have given your waste to, their waste carrier details, and vehicle details.
source: Braintree District Council
