UK Green candidate’s firm fined for ‘environmental vandalism’ after burning waste to save money

A Green Party candidate in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England is facing scrutiny after his property company was convicted last year of environmental violations tied to burning waste on a development site.

Mohammed Suleman, standing in next month’s local elections, admitted that Fenham Properties Ltd. breached the Environmental Protection Act by burning large amounts of wood in a skip converted into what authorities described as a “makeshift incinerator.” The company, which he directs and co-owns, was ordered to pay £8,507 in fines and costs, reports the Daily Mail.

The case centered on redevelopment work at Pendower Hall, a Grade II-listed former mansion being converted into four seven-bedroom homes, including a private wellness centre, swimming pool, gym, and sauna. A court heard that an environmental health officer discovered a heavily fire-damaged skip capable of holding up to 100 bin bags, which had been used as an “illegal burning chamber” to dispose of waste materials.

Councillor Alex Hay, deputy leader of Newcastle City Council, said after the conviction: “Everyone has a right to breathe clean air. It is not right, nor is it fair, to expect others to endure this act of environmental vandalism.” Suleman did not respond to requests for comment.

The Green Party said: “Where there are examples that don't represent the views of the Green Party, we are investigating.”

The situation has raised questions about candidate vetting, particularly as the party has previously pledged to introduce legislation to protect air quality. Labour MP Chi Onwurah criticized the selection, stating: “To see the Green Party fielding candidates convicted of environmental crimes is rank hypocrisy.

“They are in utter disarray over their candidates.”