A builder from Tooting is one of the men fined after rubble, debris and construction materials were found dumped on Tooting Common.

Leonard Panxhy, 37, was working on a house in Moring Road, which he had just purchased and Lavender Hill Magistrates' court heard that he had paid a man with a van to take the waste away.

That man, and another, have now been convicted of a string of offences relating to fly tips across south London and Kent, some which were so big they blocked entire roads. 

Wandsworth Times:

Tuesday’s court hearing heard that as soon as the council’s parks police team had traced Mr Panxhy to the address in Moring Road he immediately went to the common and picked up all the waste himself.

He pleaded guilty to an offence under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and was ordered to pay a total of £670 in fines and prosecution costs as well as a £25 victim surcharge. 

The council’s environment spokesman Councillor Jonathan Cook said: “This was a very serious flytip that caused enormous upset in the area.

“I am absolutely delighted that the three individuals responsible for this shocking act of criminal behaviour have all been caught and hauled before the courts.

“If ever there was a case that highlights the perils and pitfalls of paying a man with a van to take away your waste it is this one.

"People should never ever simply trust someone who cold calls them and offers a cheap deal to get rid of DIY waste, unwanted furniture or white goods.

"They must always make proper checks and ask to see proof that the person is authorised to transport and carry waste.

“If you do make this mistake chances are it will end up being dumped in a local park or in a street just around the corner – and as in this case it is not just the dumper who will be prosecuted, so will the person who paid them.”

Wandsworth residents who need waste removed are advised by the council to call 020 8871 8558.

Anyone who spots rubbish being dumped should call 020 8871 6396.