TWO businessmen have been prosecuted for dumping commercial waste in the Droxford area of the South Downs National Park.

The prosecution followed a tip-off from a member of the public who found the waste and reported it to Winchester City Council, which is determined to tackle fly-tippers in the countryside.

Two separate fly-tips were found on a bridleway near Cott Street, a previous target for fly-tippers. Follow-up investigations identified the individuals concerned and prosecutions followed.

Andrew Greek, of Greek Construction, Wickham, appeared at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court on May 24 and pleaded guilty to three breaches of section 34 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 relating to the dumping of builders’ waste. He received a fine and costs totalling £3,922.

Philip Stead, of All Seasons Southern Ltd, Southampton, appeared at the same court on May 31 and pleaded guilty to breaches of section 34 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 for the dumping of a uPVC door and frame. He received a fine and costs totalling £1,700.

Frank Pearson, portfolio holder for the environment, said: “Winchester City Council takes a dim view of those who fly-tip because their actions are a blight on society and a drain on the public purse.

“Wherever possible the city council enforcement officer will work with other services across the council to take robust action against those identified as the perpetrators.

“This can sometimes include working with neighbouring local authorities to bring the perpetrator to the courts as the council believes that authority boundaries should be invisible for this type of offence.”

To report fly-tipping should contact the city council on 01962 840222 or via the online reporting system and app at winchester.gov.uk/report.