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A Chelmsford-based construction company has been fined over £1,600 after failing to disclose the identity of a driver caught littering in Dagenham.
Victor Building Concepts, previously located in Stanley Avenue, Gidea Park, was prosecuted by Barking and Dagenham Council after a van driver associated with the firm was seen throwing a cigarette butt into the road on Porters Avenue on 1 November 2024.
The case took seven months to reach Barkingside Magistrates’ Court, where the company was found guilty in its absence on 17 June for failing to respond to a statutory notice under Section 172 of the Road Traffic Act.
Company Ignored Legal Requests
An environment enforcement officer from the council witnessed the littering incident and issued a request for the vehicle keeper’s details. When no response was received to the initial notice or a follow-up Notice of Intended Prosecution, the council proceeded with legal action.
The magistrates imposed a £440 fine, ordered the company to pay £1,024.12 in prosecution costs, and issued a £176 victim surcharge—bringing the total financial penalty to £1,640.12.
Council Statement
Councillor Syed Ghani, cabinet member for enforcement and community safety, said:
“Littering is a blight on our streets. We won’t hesitate to take action when businesses fail to cooperate with investigations.”
Company Background
Victor Building Concepts is a micro business registered in Chelmsford and run by 69-year-old Victor Sinfield. The company now operates from a rural cottage address and has fewer than ten employees.
The court outcome underscores the council’s commitment to tackling environmental offences and holding businesses accountable for failing to assist in investigations.
