A Slough business must pay a total of £1,500 after being found guilty of waste disposal offences and told they made an ‘expensive mistake’.
The case against Season Fruit and Veg Ltd, trading as Slough Green Grocer at 101 High Street, was heard at Slough Magistrates’ Court on Friday (17 May).
There were two offences under Section 34(6) Environmental Protection Act 1990s, which were failure to produce waste documents under Section 34(5) and Failure in their duty of care to transfer waste under Section 34(1).
In October last year, Slough Green Grocer placed commercial waste into the rear yard of The Curve. This was apparently due to a problem with their usual waste contractor leaving them with no bins.
The waste pile blocked access to the residential bins meaning household waste collections were missed and it also contributed to pest infestations in the area.
Despite warnings and being given time to get their bin issue in order, the waste was not removed, and it attracted further fly-tipping to the area. A Section 34 notice requiring their waste contractor’s details was not complied with.
Fixed penalty notices for these offences were not paid, despite reminders, so it proceeded to court.
Zia Ahmadi pleaded guilty to both charges on behalf of the company Season Fruit and Veg Ltd.
Councillor Ishrat Shah, lead member for equalities, public health and public protection, said: “It is never acceptable to fly-tip rubbish and businesses have a duty to dispose of waste appropriately.
“It is disappointing the fines weren’t paid before it needed to go to court, but we hope this serves as a reminder to others to take their responsibilities seriously and to pay any fines promptly.”
The company was fined £1,000 and must pay £250 compensation and a £250 costs contribution.