William McKnight pled guilty and has been fined £500 at Lanark Sheriff Court on 28 June for the illegal keeping of controlled waste at his premises at the Star Café, Carlisle Road, Lesmahagow.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) submitted a report to the Procurator Fiscal after investigations of the site throughout 2000 revealed large quantities and a wide range of waste including tyres, road cuttings, scrap metal, timber and general construction and demolition waste, were being kept illegally.

“This waste should have been taken to an appropriate licensed landfill site, where controls are in place to protect the environment,” said David Sandford, SEPA Environment Protection Officer.

“SEPA prefers to work with industry to prevent pollution but will use its legislative powers where necessary. This fine should serve as a warning to other businesses in the area to dispose of their waste properly.”

ENDS