Waste Management & Environmental Permits
Our solicitors have years of experience in dealing with the Environment Agency and interpreting environmental laws and guidance.
Why do I need an environmental lawyer?
If you face any action from the Environment Agency, from issues raised at site inspections, disputes over Compliance Assessment Reports to the service of enforcement, suspension or revocation notices you need the support of specialist environmental lawyers.
We take the time to understand your operations and processes, review the evidence and ensure that all actions and assessments are justified, fair and proportionate. Our in-depth knowledge of the industry and the rules which apply allows us to ensure that any regulatory action is undertaken in accordance with the regulator’s powers, challenged where necessary and proactive steps taken to ensure the best outcome for your business.
Environmental Permits
Our team of specialist lawyers provide guidance on applying for environmental permits, as well as reviewing and, where necessary, appealing conditions, challenging refusals and maintaining compliance for the lifetime of your operations.
We assist our clients in their understanding and adherence to regulatory rules and legislation and liaise with the regulator to avoid enforcement action wherever possible. Where that is not possible, we are with our clients every step of the way. We have extensive experience in challenging enforcement, suspension and revocation notices before the Planning Inspectorate and applications for Judicial Review of decisions, where appropriate.
Waste Management
From the definition/classification of waste and its storage and treatment, to the transportation and disposal of waste, your business needs to adhere to complex rules and regulations that make up the extensive legislative framework around waste management.
We draw on more than a decade’s worth of specialist experience to advise on compliance and avoid formal enforcement action, while also protecting your business in the event that action cannot be avoided.
Who we’ve helped
We’re experts in environmental permitting and waste management legislation. But don’t take our word for it, our results speak much louder:
We have successfully challenged Compliance Assessment Report scoring and warning letters issued to clients by the Environment Agency, which have resulted in amended scores and the withdrawal of warnings.
We represented a large wood recycling firm after investigations and enforcement notices suspended operations due to alleged non compliances with the Fire Prevention Plan Guidance. Following our intervention, the notices were withdrawn.
Our client, a landfill operator, came to us to advise upon a suspension notice served by the Environment Agency, which once in force, would have led to the company's imminent insolvency. Upon our intervention, the Environment Agency conceded issues with the notice and it was withdrawn without the need for any litigation.
We represented a large wood recycler, appealing against enforcement notices served by the Environment Agency. This involved challenges to the Environment Agency’s Fire Prevention Plan Guidance and an alternative measures argument. The notices were amended on appeal and plans reviewed to allow alternative measures at the sites.