Business owner fined £12k for allowing waste to build up
50-year-old Cameron Thompson pleaded guilty at Cheltenham Magistrates Court to breaching duty of care in relation to waste control
The owner of a Gloucestershire business has been handed more than £12,000 worth of fines for allowing waste, litter, and debris to build up in public areas and at a neighbouring property.
50-year-old Cameron Thompson, who is the owner of Overbrook Automotive, pleaded guilty at Cheltenham Magistrates Court to breaching duty of care in relation to waste control under Section 34(1) of the Environmental Protection Act.
The firm is a classic car restoration and sales business – based in Chipping Campden - with the premises said by the local authority to have fallen into a state of disrepair, which caused further waste issues.
After failing to pay two Fixed Penalty Notices related to the offences, Cotswold District Council had no choice but to pursue prosecution.
Magistrates concluded that evidence around the toxicity of the waste was indisputable, and that it posed a health and safety hazard. The waste was predominantly sealant foam and plastic sheeting but not exclusively.
Thompson was ordered to pay a £10,800 fine, as well as £2,081 in costs.
Cllr Juliet Layton, portfolio holder for regulatory services, said: “This case sends a clear message that businesses have a responsibility to manage their waste appropriately and in accordance with the law. The council will not hesitate to take action against those who fail to comply with their legal obligations.
“Poor waste management not only harms the environment but also negatively impacts our communities. We urge all businesses to ensure they have the correct waste disposal arrangements in place to avoid facing similar legal action.”
Cotswold District Council say they remain committed to enforcing environmental regulations and ensuring that businesses across the district meet their waste management responsibilities.
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