Environment Agency v. Murfitts Industries Limited
September 2011This case involved a prosecution for alleged breach of Environmental Protection Act 1990 (keeping of controlled waste in a manner likely to cause pollution) arising out of a tyre fire that burned for weeks at the defendant’s recycling premises, which was operated subject to an Environmental Permit with license conditions and thus was the subject of regular inspection by the Environment Agency.
Richard Matthews KC acted for the defence. After two days of legal argument the EA offered no evidence and the defendant company was acquitted with costs. The case involved extensive expert evidence and argument concerning the status of Home Office Guidance.