More than 5,000 people have joined what is described as the largest environmental pollution legal claim of its kind in the UK, with less than a month remaining for those affected to take part before a High Court deadline closes the case to new claimants.
The group action centres on pollution in the rivers Wye, Lugg and Usk, which span south Wales and western England. Those behind the claim argue that the rivers have been severely damaged by two main sources: chicken manure from industrial poultry operations spreading into waterways, and sewage discharges from the regional water network.
Around 5,100 residents and businesses in the river catchment areas have already joined the claim, which remains open until 31st August — a cut-off date set by the High Court. After that date, it will no longer be possible to join.
The claim names Avara Foods Limited and its UK subsidiary Freemans of Newent as defendants, alleging that chicken manure spread across agricultural land as fertiliser runs off and leaches into the rivers, creating an excess of nutrients and bacteria. This, the claimants argue, has caused species decline, algal blooms and sickness among people using the rivers. An algal bloom at Monmouth on the Wye was recorded last month. Welsh Water, which operates the regional sewerage system, is also named as a defendant over sewage discharges into the rivers.
The claim received backing last month when Natural England published a conservation update for the River Lugg Site of Special Scientific Interest, concluding that phosphorus levels exceed targets throughout the Lugg catchment and that excess nutrients are causing algal growth and changes to aquatic plant communities in the area.
On the sewage side, Environment Agency data revealed that Welsh Water spilled at least 12,500 hours’ worth of sewage across 45 locations in England alone during 2024.
Those eligible to join the claim include residents whose enjoyment of the rivers has been affected through hobbies such as wild swimming, kayaking or fishing, as well as those who have suffered financially – including owners of waterfront properties whose values have fallen, and businesses in the tourism and fishing sectors. People affected by the Lugg planning moratorium are also eligible.
Leigh Day partner Oliver Holland said: ‘We are now entering the final few weeks for residents and businesses to join what is the first and largest environmental claim of its kind concerning pollution in the UK. The claim seeks to address the serious pollution affecting the rivers Wye, Lugg and Usk and currently includes more than 5,000 resident and businesses who say they have suffered a range of consequences, from personal effects on their homes and enjoyment of the rivers to losses affecting local businesses and house building.
‘Anyone who believes they have been affected should ensure they join the claim before the August Bank Holiday deadline.’
Photo: Mike Erskine
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