Breaches of planning regulations have cost a Leicestershire-based timber fencing company in excess of £8,000 in fines and costs.
Michael Stacey, a director of RJ Fencing of Kibworth Harcourt, and John Briggs, who owns the land on which the company stands, admitted breaching planning enforcement notices when they appeared before Harborough magistrates on July 20.
The court heard that due to serious environmental concerns, principally excessive noise and proximity to a highway, the company, which employs 12 people, had been ordered to cease operations at the site.
An application for permission to continue was rejected by Harborough Council and an appeal is due to be heard later this year.
However, the court was told the company continued to operate despite enforcement notices being served and as a result legal action was brought.
Defence lawyer Paul Hunt said the case against the men was: ” totally inappropriate” and that all efforts had been made to comply with planners.
Briggs was fined £3,300 with £1,500 costs and Stacey was fined £2,000 with £1,500 costs.
