The owner of a waste removal company has been ordered to pay almost £2,000 for illegally advertising his business.

Steven Paul Hempstock was convicted in his absence at Worcester Magistrates Court on Friday, August 24 of breaching the Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) (England) Regulations 2007 and Section 224 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.

He was fined £1,200, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £120 and costs of £591.

On January 26 this year, the 45-year-old, of Deer Avenue in Worcester, had placed a trailer advertising his business – Steve’s Rubbish Removals – on land off the Whittington roundabout near junction 7 of the M5. However, he had failed to gain permission from Wychavon District Council.

Hempstock was convicted of the offence on March 27 for which he was fined £300 and ordered to pay £300 in costs.

However, he failed to remove the trailer as required by the order. It wasn’t until June 5 when Wychavon District Council began proceedings against him for failing to comply with the original court judgement that the trailer was relocated.

While there are many forms of outdoor advertising that do not require planning permission, some, including advertising trailers, do need planning consent and the permission of the land owner.

Cllr Bradley Thomas, executive board member for planning, transport and infrastructure on Wychavon District Council, said: “We’re pleased with the level of fine in this case and hope it sends a clear message. While we’re supportive of businesses it’s important that people play by the rules to ensure a level playing field for everyone.

“Obtaining planning permission for this type of outdoor advertising is also critical so we can properly consider its position and ensure it poses no safety risk by confusing or distracting passing motorists.”