A Birmingham-based company, B46 Properties Limited, has been successfully prosecuted by the Environment Agency for failing to remove approximately 4,000 tonnes of waste from a site near Fradley, Staffordshire. The business, located on Station Road in Stechford, pleaded guilty at Cannock Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, September 3, to violating an Environment Agency order.

The waste included a mix of bricks, trommel fines, wood, construction, and green waste, which was unlawfully stored at Brickyard Farm in Fradley. Despite warnings and orders issued by the Environment Agency to clear the waste, B46 Properties failed to comply.

The court imposed a total penalty of £18,465.56, comprising an £806 fine, a £322 victim surcharge, and £17,337.56 in costs. The Environment Agency emphasized that the site posed a significant environmental threat due to the risk of fire and the potential harm to local communities and human health.

Gary Hambleton, a director of B46 Properties, informed the Environment Agency that the company was clearing the waste as funds became available, but refused to borrow money or use an overdraft to expedite the process. The court, however, upheld the charges against the company, with a personal charge against Mr. Hambleton being dropped.

Imogen Smith, the lead officer for the Environment Agency in the West Midlands, stated: “We welcome this sentence, which should act as a deterrent to others considering flouting the law. This site posed a significant environmental threat, and this conviction highlights the importance of adhering to waste management regulations.”

The Environment Agency is encouraging the public to report environmental concerns to their 24/7 hotline or Crimestoppers. The case underscores the legal responsibilities of businesses in managing waste properly to avoid environmental damage.