Challenging pollution in the rivers Wye, Lugg and Usk

More than 4,000 individuals and local businesses have joined the biggest ever group legal action to be brought over UK environmental pollution. The claim, led by leading law firm Leigh Day, alleges that excessive phosphorus from the spreading of chicken manure by the Avara Foods Poultry Group (which includes Avara Foods Limited and Freemans of Newent) as well as sewage from works by Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, are the main causes of pollution affecting the rivers.

The major action, issued at the High Court, was prompted by changes to the Wye, its tributaries including the Lugg, and the Usk, with alleged impacts on wildlife, recreation and the livelihood of business owners. A growing number of business owners across the Wye, Lugg and Usk catchments are joining forces in a landmark legal action, as environmental damage continues. Those who have joined include people from your local area and small businesses reliant on tourists such as bed and breakfasts and other hospitality businesses, people with AirBNBs, and swimming or fishing businesses.

The claim is led by Leigh Day partner Oliver Holland. He said: “If the claim succeeds it could bring real change. Some people just want to protect their rivers, and the claim could help stop the pollution and clean up the rivers. Other people and businesses have suffered serious financial losses, and the claim could help put them back where they would have been if the rivers weren’t polluted.”

The claim is open for other business owners to join. To join the legal action or to find out more, visit https://www.leighday.co.uk/our-services/group-claims/river-wye-claim/.

Article supplied by Leigh Day