Vesbar prosecuted for flytipping

Wednesday January 13, 2009

A popular Shepherds Bush bar which illegally dumped huge amounts of rubbish on Goldhawk Road has been slapped with a £3,000 fine.

The council received numerous complaints after more than 30 orange recycling bags and three large wheelie bins were unceremoniously ditched outside Vesbar, situated on the corner of Goldhawk Road and Shepherds Bush Road.

Upon investigation, officers from the council’s street scene enforcement team revealed that all of the bags contained glass bottles. This meant that not only was the flytip unsightly, but it also created a serious risk of accident as the bags were strewn all over the pavement.

Vesbar were found to have broken their trade waste agreement with the council and hit with the £3,000 at West London Magistrates’ on Wednesday, December 2. They were also order to pay court costs of £1,800.

Cllr Greg Smith, cabinet member for crime and street scene, said: “Flytipping is simply not acceptable in Hammersmith & Fulham and we have no hesitation in pursuing those who illegally dump their waste.  Residents are demanding cleaner streets and we will not hesitate to prosecute offenders on their behalf. The message is clear – if you want to flytip, be prepared to pay the price.”

Once in the council's possession, the glass was recycled. Vesbar now face the risk of a £50,000 fine if they flytip again. Vesbar should also have placed their waste in 'trade waste' bags and not the orange household recycling bags.

To report suspected fly-tipping call the council’s hotline on 020 8753 1100 or email cleaner.greener@lbhf.gov.uk.