A LANDOWNER, suspected of the unauthorised disposal of waste on his farm, has been ordered to pay nearly £1,300 after failing to respond to a planning notice.

Ian Hobden, 67, of Giffords Farm, Battle Road, Dallington, pleaded guilty to failing to respond a Planning Contravention Notice when he appeared at Hastings Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, July 18.

East Sussex County Council issued the notice as it investigated allegations that Mr Hobden had breached planning control by bringing waste materials onto his land for disposal and burning.

The notice required Mr Hobden to provide information which would help the county council decide if a breach had occurred and what, if any enforcement action should be taken.  Despite repeated reminders, Mr Hobden did not respond.

An East Sussex County Council spokesperson said: “Unauthorised disposal of waste can have a detrimental impact on the environment and a negative effect on communities.

“We will always work with landowners to properly investigate any alleged breaches and taking legal action is the last resort.  We hope this case sends a clear message to anyone suspected of breaching planning controls that we take our duty extremely seriously and will do everything we can to get to the bottom of all allegations.”

At Hastings Magistrates’ Court, Mr Hobden was ordered to pay a total of £1,291.50 which included a £700 fine, £311.50 costs and a victim surcharge of £280.

Mr Hobden must now respond to East Sussex County Council’s Planning Contravention Notice or face further prosecution.

Ends.