News

A case at the end of July that made legal history in the UK could also have potential knock on effects for future brownfield land development.

As a result of the remediation of contaminated land on a former steelworks site being poorly handled by Corby Borough Council, sixteen families have successfully proven a link between their children's deformities and exposure to poisonous waste. 

The ruling has seen the Council now being liable for negligence, breach of statutory duty and public nuisance.
It is believed that the increase in potential liabilities will do little to encourage an already depressed market in redevelopment. 

Despite the fact that the Corby case was of exceptional circumstances, Berrymans Lace Mawer the Council's legal representatives believe that the judgement "for local authorities and developers alike.. is a significant concern because the standard of care has been drawn very highly, and could cause a rethink of the way that reclamation is carried out in the UK."

The Environment Agency have published a new guide entitled 'Get to Know Your Oil Tank' aimed at homeowners.

Environment Agency Area Manager Simon Hughes has commented how "every autumn we receive hundreds of reports of pollution caused when homeowners have their oil tanks refilled before the cold weather sets in."  In the Thames region alone, 400 oil leaks were reported last year. 

The resulting damage caused by an oil spill can be devasting to the environment, people, animals and fish, particularly if it permeates into the ground and finds its way into surrounding waterways. 
This potential danger means if you use oil for home heating you must be aware of the risks and responsibilities involved.

If anyone sees an oil spill they're advised to call the Environment Agency's 24 hour incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60.

Alternatively, should they require the specialist remediation and oil spill clean up services of Alpha Environmental our UK National Helpline is 0800 083 3524.  For Irish homeowners our ROI National Helpline is 1800 242 698.