Sway man Robert Rickman to face trial over land at Lower Mead End Road which he shares with brother and NFDC councillor Barry Rickman

One of two brothers told by a court to clear waste and scrap cars from a New Forest property will now face trial accused of failing to comply with the order.

Robert Rickman (70) of Lower Mead End Road, Sway, was prosecuted in 2021 along with his brother, former leader of New Forest District Council, Barry Rickman, as they both own parts of the site.

As reported in the A&T, Robert was given a four-month prison term, suspended for 12 months, while Barry was hit with a £3,000 court bill for flouting environmental laws.

The judge ordered both brothers to clear the site of all scrap and end-of-life vehicles by November 2022 but at a hearing at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Thursday heard from Environment Agency prosecutor Gordon Stark, who said it had not been done.

The A&T understands Barry Rickman, who is still an NFDC councillor, has cleared his parts of the site and will face no further action.

Robert Rickman pleaded not guilty to contempt of court and was given unconditional bail until 4th October when he will face a trial.