A letting agency and its director have been successfully prosecuted for five counts of fly-tipping.

Cozy Properties, in Peterborough, and sole director Asif Hasham were prosecuted by Fenland District Council.

Peterborough magistrates heard how Hasham illegally dumped large amounts of waste during late 2016 and early 2017.

The waste originated from a number of his rental properties and included household items such as furniture, clothing and general rubbish. Materials were also found that were used to grow cannabis.

Streetscene enforcement officers from Fenland District Council undertook detailed investigations into the company’s activities.

At formal interview, Hasham was unable to provide evidence of correct disposal of waste for nine homes managed by Cozy Properties, or for waste found belonging to his personal address and the former address of his wife.

On August 19, the District Judge found Hasham and Cozy Properties guilty of all five offences under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

In sentencing this month, Hasham was fined a total of £7,500. Cozy Properties was ordered to pay the council’s full costs of £15,446 and £1,000 compensation for the clean-up costs.

Cllr Peter Murphy, Fenland District Council’s portfolio holder for environment, said: “Fly-tipping is a serious offence. It is harmful to the environment and our communities, and results in significant costs to the public purse to clear.

“We will not tolerate such offences and will continue to thoroughly investigate incidents of this nature and prosecute perpetrators where possible.

“Individuals and businesses must ensure that they have proper arrangements in place to dispose of their waste.

“The fine imposed in this case reflects the severity and frequency of the fly-tipping and the hours the council have put in to bring the perpetrator to justice.”