Frampton Cotterell man prosecuted for waste offences

Michael White, of Kelbra Crescent, was prosecuted by South Gloucestershire environmental protection team after fly tipped household and garage waste was discovered on Henfield Road in Lyde Green on May 2. 

The waste included motorcycle parts, engine oil and cardboard packaging.

Evidence found amongst the rubbish identified White, who attended the council’s offices for interview where he stated that the waste belonged to him and had been taken away by a friend, but should have been taken to the recycling centre for disposal. He refused to name the person and admitted that he had liability for his waste. 

In court, White pleaded guilty to two charges; one for the breach of his duty of care and the other for failing to provide information. He was fined £250 for each of the two offences, plus costs of £977.50 and a £30 victim surcharge (total £1,507.50). 

The case was heard at Bristol Magistrates’ Court on Friday, September 15. 

South Gloucestershire Council’s Cabinet member for Communities and Tourism Cllr Heather Goddard said: “There is no excuse for fly tipping which is why our ongoing campaign against offenders continues. It is an issue that affects our communities and harms the local environment, but could so easily be avoided as our Sort It centres are open from 8.30am to 4.30pm, seven days a week.

“The duty of care to ensure the proper disposal of waste rests with everyone. If you fly tip rubbish in South Gloucestershire, you can expect to be caught and prosecuted.” 

Residents are advised to only give their rubbish to an Environment Agency registered waste carrier. 

To check whether a waste carrier is registered, call the Environment Agency on 08708 506506 or by check on their website http://epr.environment-agency.gov.uk/ePRInternet/searchregisters.aspx

Unwanted goods and household or garden waste can all be disposed of at no cost via the council’s Sort It centres.