Man fined after ‘pungent and acrid’ smell from chimney sparks complaints

11 January 2023 , 00:00

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The 67-year-old had been served the notice by Tewkesbury Borough Council after complaints from residents about the smell (Image: Getty Images)

A man has been fined a total of £330 after burning treated wood at his home, sending a “pungent and acrid” smell into the air from his chimney.

Richard Cameron, of Parton Grange, Parton Road, Churchdown, pleaded guilty to failing to comply with an abatement notice when he appeared at Cheltenham Magistrates' Court, reports Gloucestershire Live.

The 67-year-old had been served the notice by Tewkesbury Borough Council after complaints from residents about the smell of smoke coming from his home.

Prosecuting, Joe Maloney said this was due to Cameron burning wood that had been treated with chemicals.

He said that after the notice had been issued, a council enforcement officer saw smoke coming from the chimney on September 29 last year and that the smell was “pungent and acrid”.

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Prosecuting, Joe Maloney said this was due to Cameron burning wood that had been treated with chemicals (Getty Images)

Cameron pleaded guilty to failing to comply with an abatement notice issued under section 80 (1) of the Environmental Protection Act 1980.

He apologised to the court and said that on the night in question he had been at home and had not been aware that the smoke was bothering his neighbours. He added: “All I can say is I won’t let it happen again.”

Magistrates fined him £200, ordered him to pay an £80 surcharge and £50 prosecution costs.

Robin Jenkins