Businesses fined for failing to dispose of waste properly after council takes aim at fly tippers

• Two businesses on Edgware Road were fined £505 and £1,025 respectively following an investigation by Westminster Council’s city inspectors into waste incorrectly left on the street.
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As part of the investigation, businesses were asked to provide a Waste Transfer Note, which are documents that is required for any business wishes to dispose of waste in a safe and hygienic way. However, when requested to produce correct paperwork, both shops failed provide the correct evidence.

Despite previous interventions by the council, the two businesses were issued significant fines after breaching Section 34 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Cases were heard at Westminster Magistrates Court on 7^th June and 30^th August.  

The sizable punishments underline the council’s Fairer Environment commitment, to taking action on dumped waste and making sure the city’s streets stay clean and safe.

As part of this pledge, the council continue to target problematic sites and streets where cleanliness is a problem. Since April, they have issued 365 fixed penalty notices to residents and businesses who have carelessly dumped waste on Westminster streets. Additionally, there have been 9,536 waste interventions with city inspectors clearing boxes, garden waste, washing machines and mattresses off the streets.

As part of this action, the council’s bulky refuge service continues to be as popular with residents, so much so that turnaround for collection has been shortened from 10 days to 3. The service is quick and easy, more information can be found on the council’s website.

Cllr Paul Dimoldenberg, Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality said:

Making sure Westminster’s streets stay clean and safe for residents remains the council's top priority.

These fines highlight the importance of making sure businesses follow the proper guidelines for preparing waste in a safe and hygienic manner ready for collection. I’m pleased see the work of our city inspectors has been vindicated.

We provide a quick and affordable service for businesses and residents to dispose of bulky waste so there is no excuse to carelessly dump it on the side of the street. If you don’t meet our standards, be prepared to face the consequences”.

If you spot fly tipping in your area, you can use our report it service.