Resident prosecuted for failing to clean up messy garden

A Kirkby resident has been prosecuted by Ashfield District Council for failing to clean up their garden.

Claire Blockley, of Roderick Avenue, Kirkby-in-Ashfield, was given several warnings by the Council and was subsequently served with a Community Protection Notice due to the rubbish dumped in her garden.

Failing to comply with the Community Protection Notice, Council Officers issued her with a Fixed Penalty Notice of £100.

After failing to pay this, and with the rubbish still in her garden, the Council’s Community Safety Team applied to take the case to the Magistrates Court.

On Friday 21st May 2021, Ashfield District Council attended Mansfield Magistrates Court where it was proved that Ms Blockley had breached her Community Protection Notice in contrary to section 48 (1) and (2)(a) of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 and was subsequently prosecuted.

She was fined £220.00, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £34 and costs of £425.84.

The Council were also awarded a Remedial order which means the waste must be removed by 21st June 2021.

Antonio Taylor, Community Safety Manager at Ashfield District Council, said “Claire Blockley ignored several warnings from the Community Safety Team about the rubbish in her garden and had ample opportunity the clear it. Messy gardens have such a negative effect on neighbours, and the environment, so this is a fantastic result for the team. The Council is committed to tackling anti-social behaviour of any kind to create a safer and cleaner District”.