A Stroud-based property development company, Dream Home Developments Limited, has been fined thousands of pounds after admitting to the illegal burning of trade waste. The offence, which involved emitting dark smoke from an industrial site, was a clear violation of environmental protection laws.
The company pleaded guilty at Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court to breaching the Clean Air Act 1993. This followed an investigation by Stroud District Council’s Environmental Protection team, triggered by reports of a large bonfire on the former Redler site on November 6, 2024.
The investigation confirmed that the burning produced dark smoke, an offence under clean air regulations. The court imposed a fine of £1,400, reduced from £2,000 due to an early guilty plea, along with a £560 Victim Surcharge and £2,891.20 in costs payable to Stroud District Council.
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Stroud’s Environmental Protection Officers have noted a rise in complaints about illegal burning of controlled waste at commercial premises. Burning trade waste without an Environmental Permit or exemption is strictly prohibited. Emitting dark smoke during such activities is a criminal offence under the Clean Air Act 1993.
Councillor Martin Pearcy, Chair of the Environment Committee at Stroud District Council, emphasized the seriousness of the issue: “This conviction sends a strong message that businesses will face enforcement action if they disregard environmental laws. Burning trade waste not only degrades air quality but also endangers public health. We urge all businesses to handle waste responsibly and comply with legal requirements.”
The council warns that bonfires are not an acceptable form of waste disposal. Enforcement actions will continue to protect the environment and public health.