Lincolnshire Cousins Fined for Waste Crime Offences in Court Ruling

Farmers Prosecuted for Waste Regulation Violations

The Environment Agency has successfully taken legal action against two farmers from Lincolnshire for violations of waste regulations, including the unlawful incineration of waste and the construction of unauthorised hardstanding. The cousins, Ian and Mark Wilmot from North Owersby, near Market Rasen, faced fines and costs amounting to nearly £7,000 after admitting to the offences at Lincoln Magistrates’ Court on 27 July 2026.

Ian Wilmot, aged 61, of Hall Farm, was fined £792, in addition to a surcharge of £316.80 and costs totalling £2,881.75, bringing his total financial penalty to £3,990.55. Meanwhile, Mark Wilmot, 66, of Bramwil Hall Farm, received a 15-month conditional discharge and was ordered to pay a total of £2,820.25, which included a £26 surcharge and costs of £2,794.25.

Surveillance Leads to Discovery of Waste Violations

The court proceedings revealed that Environment Agency officers had been monitoring activities in the Market Rasen area, which prompted an investigation into the transfer of waste between farms. This scrutiny led them to Hall Farm, where significant amounts of waste had been improperly deposited. The waste included brick rubble tainted with wood, plastics, plasterboard, and roofing felt.

Furthermore, one officer observed a fire on the premises, which was burning waste materials. In subsequent interviews, Mark Wilmot admitted to relocating the waste from a nearby farm to his cousin Ian’s property. Despite possessing a waste carrier’s licence, he failed to verify whether an environmental permit was in place for the transfer. Additionally, he was asked to provide waste transfer notes for the materials but was unable to do so.

Commitment to Tackling Waste Crime

Peter Stark, the Enforcement Team Leader for the Environment Agency in Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire, expressed the agency’s zero-tolerance stance on waste crime. He emphasised the importance of compliance with environmental regulations and reiterated that farmers and landowners must adhere to these laws. Stark mentioned, “We will not hesitate to act against those who break the law. We offer advice and guidance for individuals before they engage in any waste activities, which can be found on our website.”

Individuals who suspect illegal waste operations are encouraged to report their concerns to the Environment Agency, which operates a 24/7 hotline at 0800 80 70 60. Reports can also be made anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

Strengthening Regulations Against Waste Offences

This case is part of the Environment Agency’s broader initiative, outlined in its 10 Point Plan, aimed at intensifying efforts to combat waste crime. This strategy includes more proactive measures on larger sites, enhanced use of enforcement powers, and improved transparency regarding illegal waste activities.

Details of the Charges

Ian Wilmot pleaded guilty to operating a regulated facility at Hall Farm without the necessary environmental permit between 27 June 2023 and 7 July 2023. This violation pertains to the deposit, treatment, and storage of mixed waste, contravening Regulations 12(1) and 38(1)(a) of the Environmental Permitting (England & Wales) Regulations 2016.

Mark Wilmot also admitted to charges including knowingly causing the deposit of controlled waste at Hall Farm during the same period, without an environmental permit. This action violated section 33(1)(a) and (6) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Additionally, he failed to comply with the duty of care requirements for waste disposal as stipulated in section 34(1)(c)(ii) of the same Act, which mandates proper documentation to prevent illegal waste handling.