Worcestershire Brook Pollution Brings Prosecution of 2 Companies
29 October 2024 | 12:06
Two companies have been prosecuted for polluting a brook in Worcestershire, causing significant environmental damage.
Severn Trent Water Limited and EQE Waste Services Limited appeared at Kidderminster Magistrates’ Court on 28 October 2024, where they pleaded guilty to charges under the Water Resources Act 1991.
The court heard that on 15 April 2023, a significant pollution incident occurred at a sewage treatment works operated by Severn Trent Water in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire. A pipe burst at the site, releasing untreated sewage into a nearby brook.
The pollution caused a fish kill, with over 1,000 fish found dead downstream. The brook is also a designated bathing water site, and the pollution forced the closure of the beach for several days.
EQE Waste Services was also found to have contributed to the pollution by failing to properly dispose of waste at one of its sites in Bellbroughton, Worcestershire. The waste leaked into a nearby watercourse, which then flowed into the brook.
The companies were fined a total of £60,000, with Severn Trent Water ordered to pay £40,000 and EQE Waste Services ordered to pay £20,000. Both companies were also ordered to pay costs of £10,000 each.
Speaking after the hearing, Environment Agency officer Sarah Jane Griffiths said: “This was a serious pollution incident that caused significant environmental damage. The companies involved failed in their duty to protect the environment and put the health of the public at risk.
“We are pleased that the court has imposed significant fines on both companies. This sends a clear message that we will not tolerate environmental pollution and that those responsible will be held to account.”
Severn Trent Water and EQE Waste Services have both apologized for the incident and said they are taking steps to improve their environmental performance.
Worcestershire brook pollution brings prosecution of 2 companies
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