A PET funeral company in Stroud has been ordered to pay £64,000 after thick clouds of dark and black smoke were emitted from the site. 

Time Right, which is based in Lypiatt, pleaded guilty to three charges that it failed to use the best techniques to control emissions in the air.

The case was heard at Cheltenham Magistrates Court on Thursday, December 14 following a prosecution brought by Stroud District Council.

On occasions, thick plumes of dark and black smoke were emitted from the site at Limekiln Farm in contravention of permit conditions.

The animal incineration company was ordered to pay a total of £64,489 including a £50,000 fine plus costs and a victim surcharge.

The District Judge hearing the case considered the evidence and concluded that the company had “acted recklessly over a significant period of time”. 

However, it was acknowledged that significant steps have since been taken by the company to address the issue moving forwards.

SDC environment committee chair, Cllr Chloe Turner, following the hearing said: “Installations operating under a relevant Environmental Permit are inspected by members of the SDC Environmental Protection team. 

“Where non-compliance is identified, officers will always work to address those issues with the company as a matter of priority and, where appropriate, undertake enforcement action” 

Committee vice chair, Cllr Robin Layfield added: “Air quality is an important issue for the whole of Stroud district and this case shows the council’s commitment to taking effective and timely action to protect air quality for everyone.”