Builder fined after dumping waste containing asbestos

This waste dumped by Lee Stoddart near Metal Bridge Cemetery contained asbestos cement.

Lee Anthony Cooke Stoddart, 32, of Osborne Terrace in Ferryhill, was dealt with at Peterlee Magistrates' Court after we prosecuted him.

Asbestos cement found among dumped building waste

The court heard that in October last year, the council received a report of an illegal fly-tip on land near Metal Bridge Cemetery.

The tip, which was primarily made up of building waste, contained asbestos cement, which meant it had to be removed by a specialist team.

Invoices for Stoddart's business, KSD Roofing and Home Improvements, were found in the waste and he admitted the offence when interviewed later that month.

Fine and costs totalling almost £2,000

Stoddart attended court, where he pleaded guilty to dumping the waste, as well as two environmental offences relating to the use of a van.

He was fined £1,042 and ordered to pay £615 costs and a £246 victim surcharge.

Tipping asbestos 'reckless in the extreme'

Ian Hoult, our neighbourhood protection manager, said: "Fly-tipping in itself is bad enough but to tip waste containing asbestos is reckless in the extreme and puts the public and our staff at risk.

"We will always take action against anyone dumping waste illegally, and appeal to the public to help us by reporting any incidents or intelligence to us so we can investigate and take the necessary action.

"Details such as the descriptions of the vehicles and people involved are a massive help to us in tracking down those responsible and we always appreciate the public's assistance in these matters."