Westmill landfill site (Ware) environmental nuisance claim
Latest news: The Court of Appeal
hands down judgement in favour of claimaints overturning the
initial outcome read more
The
environment solicitors at Hugh James currently represent
nearly 160 residents who live on the Old Vicarage Estate, and other
areas that surround the Westmill Landfill site, Ware,
Hertfordshire. The case relates to odour nuisance which is alleged
to have emanated from the site, which is operated by Biffa Waste
Services Ltd.
The area known as
Westmill 2 began operation in July 2004 and accepts up to 250,000
tonnes a year of non-hazardous waste. The site currently comprises
10 cells of approximately 200 square metres each. The site
currently has approval to continue to accept waste until 2012.
By the middle of July
2004, residents in the areas surrounding the site were expressing
grave concerns about the way in which the landfill site was being
run and were experiencing unpleasant odours, dust, noise, a fly
infestation, litter, birds and other vermin.
Residents say that they
have had to keep their windows and doors closed to prevent the
odour from entering their homes. This has been particularly
unpleasant during the summer months. They also claim they are
unable to enjoy their homes and gardens as a result of the
problems.
Hugh James are currently
pursing a group action against Biffa for compensation as
recognition of the problems residents have endured and an order
restraining the defendant from causing a nuisance in the
future.
The High Court in London
granted a Group Litigation Order, appointing Hugh James to act as
the lead solicitors in the Westmill Landfill Group Litigation. Hugh
James are representing residents under the terms of a “no win, no
fee” agreement where appropriate.
Following a five week
trial in November and December 2010, Mr Justice Coulson found
against the claimants in his judgment, which was handed down in
April 2011.
.
For more information
about the case, please contact the our environmental solicitors on
02920 391118.
