IN A prosecution brought by Cambridge City Council, at Cambridge Magistrates’ Court, a woman has been found guilty of littering domestic waste, at a household recycling centre at Larkin Close. 

Adele Convine, of Larkin Close, Cambridge, was ordered to pay a total of £234 for littering, which is a criminal offence under section 87/88 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

The court heard that domestic waste was found dumped at Larkin Close in October 2021, and that the council’s enforcement officers were able to track down the suspect. Ms Convine admitted she didn’t want to contaminate the recycling bins, and thought it was acceptable to leave it by the bins.

Despite being offered a fixed penalty notice as an alternative to prosecution, Ms Convine failed to pay the fine and the matter was referred to the court. Ms Convine did not make payment and did not contact the council again.

At court, Ms Convine did not enter a plea, and was found guilty in her absence. She was ordered to pay a fine of £150, legal costs of £50 and a victim surcharge of £34 by Cambridge Magistrates.

Cllr Rosy Moore, Executive Councillor for Environment, Climate Change and Biodiversity, said: “We take the issue of dumping of waste very seriously in Cambridge. Dumping rubbish is not only unsightly and expensive to remove, but poses a health hazard to other residents, pets and wildlife. It also makes a place look uncared for and often attracts further dumping of rubbish and other anti-social behaviour. 

“Our residents are sick of the irresponsible few who litter and fly tip in our beautiful city, it is a waste of the council’s scarce resources, which could be better spent on services to residents.

“I hope this prosecution sends a clear message to residents – please make sure you dispose of waste legally and responsibly.”

To report fly tipping, visit: cambridge.gov.uk/report-flytipping.

To understand how to dispose of your waste responsibly, visit: cambridge.gov.uk/bins-recycling-and-rubbish