A distribution firm in Dagenham has been told to pay more than £1,300 after failing to produce documents showing how they dispose of their rubbish.

Enforcement officers from Barking and Dagenham Council carried out a routine inspection of HN Wells Ltd, which deals with importing and distributing food, in July 2018. 

However, the Wantz Road business failed to produce Waste Transfer Notes on request for how they got rid of their general rubbish and recycling waste – an offence under section 34 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

Despite being given several opportunities to present the documentation, the company failed and was issued with a £300 fixed penalty notice in October 2018. 

When the company still didn’t pay, the council took the case to court. 

Businesses have a legal responsibility when it comes to getting rid of their rubbish and we are determined to send a strong message to offenders who think they can do as they please.

Councillor Margaret Mullane, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety, said: “Here is another example of a business that thought it was above the law being made to pay a heavy price for their crime. 

“Businesses have a legal responsibility when it comes to getting rid of their rubbish and we are determined to send a strong message to offenders who think they can do as they please. We encourage businesses to set up and operate in the borough but they must comply with the law of the land.”

At a hearing at Barkingside Magistrates Court on Friday, 7 June 2019, HN Wells Ltd were fined £600 and ordered to pay £728 costs plus a £60 victim surcharge.