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Waste Enforcement Officers at Neath Port Talbot Council discovered the waste near Gwrhyd Road, Rhiwfawr in the Swansea Valley on 7th April 2026  

Investigations linked the waste to 41-year-old Wayne Thompson. Following enquiries and a formal interview under caution, Mr Thompson admitted responsibility for illegally depositing the waste shown in the evidence presented by officers.

Wayne Thompson, aged 41, of Brecon Road, Ystradgynlais, appeared before Swansea Magistrates' Court on 17th September 2026, where he pleaded guilty to depositing controlled waste without lawful authority, contrary to Section 33 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

He’s been fined £440 and has been ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £176 as well as prosecution costs of £631.76, totalling £1247.76.  

Councillor Scott Jones, Cabinet Member for Streetscene, said:

"Fly-tipping blights our communities, damages the environment and costs taxpayers’ money to clear up. This successful prosecution demonstrates that Neath Port Talbot Council will investigate incidents thoroughly and take appropriate enforcement action against those responsible.

“We would encourage anyone who witnesses fly-tipping to report it so that we can continue to take action against offenders and help keep our communities clean and safe."

Neath Port Talbot Council continues to take a robust approach to environmental crime and reminds residents and businesses that they have a legal responsibility to ensure that their waste is disposed of lawfully through authorised carriers and facilities.

Anyone who witnesses fly-tipping or has information regarding environmental offences can report it via the Council's website or by contacting the Council directly.