The operator of a pet crematorium in the Cotswolds has been fined for non-compliance with the requirements of its Environmental Permit.

Time Right of Limekiln Farm, Lypiatt, entered a guilty plea to three charges by Stroud District Council alleging a failure by the company to use the best available techniques at the site to control its emissions to air. On occasions, thick plumes of dark and black smoke were emitted from the site in contravention of permit conditions.

At a sentencing hearing at Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court, Time Right was fined £50,000 for these non-compliances – full costs and a victim surcharge raised the total penalty to £64,489.

The District Judge hearing the case considered the evidence and concluded that the company had acted recklessly over a significant period of time. However, it was acknowledged that significant steps have since been taken by the company to address the issue moving forwards.

“Installations operating under a relevant Environmental Permit are inspected by members of the Environmental Protection team at Stroud District Council. Where non-compliance is identified, officers will always work to address those issues with the company as a matter of priority and, where appropriate, undertake enforcement action” said Environment Committee Chair, Councillor Chloe Turner, following the hearing.

Committee Vice Chair Robin Layfield added: “Air quality is an important issue for the whole of Stroud district and this case shows the council’s commitment to taking effective and timely action to protect air quality for everyone.”