Crianlarich hotel fined by Scotland’s environmental watchdog for burning waste material

A hotel in Crianlarich has been fined by Scotland’s environmental watchdog for burning waste material without permission. Crianlarich Ben More Limited, the company operating Ben More Lodge Hotel and Restaurant, has been issued a £600 penalty for this violation. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) imposed the Fixed Monetary Penalty (FMP) after discovering that waste was being burned at the hotel without the necessary authorisation.

In June 2023, SEPA was alerted to the incident and sent officers to investigate. Upon arrival, they found evidence of burned waste such as wood, brush, metal, chipboard, and nails. Additionally, controlled waste items like burnt mattress springs, insulation, carpet, treated wood, plastic bottles, paint tins, and glass were discovered. SEPA confirmed that the hotel had disposed of controlled waste by burning, leading to the imposition of the FMP.

Calum McGregor from SEPA’s Environmental Crime Team stated that illegal burning of waste is unacceptable as it can release harmful gases and pollute the environment. He emphasised the importance of seeking alternative disposal methods and obtaining the necessary authorisations to avoid such violations. SEPA highlighted that FMPs are issued for relevant offences that do not cause significant environmental harm.

The hotel, Crianlarich Ben More Limited, was contacted for comment but did not respond before the publication deadline. SEPA’s enforcement action serves as a reminder to businesses to comply with environmental regulations regarding waste disposal to protect the environment and communities.

In conclusion, the hotel owner’s fine for burning waste material serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of proper waste management practices. Businesses must adhere to environmental regulations to prevent harm to the environment and communities. It is crucial to seek advice and obtain authorisations for waste disposal methods to avoid penalties and protect the environment for future generations.