John has extensive knowledge and experience of this complex area of law. He was initially appointed by the Attorney-General in 2003 to prosecute cases on behalf of the Environment Agency both in the Magistrates and Crown Court. Since then he has moved into defending both individuals and large companies in the Criminal Courts. He has a wealth of experience in presenting cases in criminal cases and uses his experience in front of juries in other criminal cases for the benefit of his lay clients. He has an approachable manner, and feels that it is important to be able to explain complex areas of law in a way that clients understand. His knowledge and experience allows him to get the best results for his clients.
In a very recent case involving breaches of the Environmental Permitting Regulations, he was praised by the judge for his handling of the case and was able to secure a nominal fine of £1000 for his client.
He has a particular interest in “waste” and “water pollution” cases as well as ”statutory nuisance” cases brought by Local Authorities. He also advises Local Authorities and Companies in relation to “Air Pollution” cases. He is adept at dealing with large POCA cases which invariably follow in these cases.
Environmental Regulation Cases
Recently advised a leading UK commercial vehicle body and trailer manufacturer on Statutory Nuisance Proceedings brought by Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council Represented “Castle Cement” in proceedings involving air pollution and a risk to human health. Case was resolved by expert evidence confirming there was no risk. Instructed by Osborne Clarke solicitors.
Prosecuted BNFL for water pollution.
Prosecuted Welsh Water for breaches of Consents of water abstraction.
Prosecuted Kronospan PLC for pollution cases.
Defending a Rhyl businessman for depositing controlled waste and the ensuing POCA proceedings.
Advised Wrexham County Council on proceedings against a leading company for potential Statutory Nuisance Proceedings for air pollution.
Advised Pendle County Council in relation to odour pollution and Statutory Nuisance.
Appeared on behalf of a businessman in the building and construction field in a “Controlled Waste” case.
John is an enthusiastic member of UKELA and has a keen interest in the environment and the countryside. He has appeared in a number of cases involving the Forestry Commission, The Countryside Council, Defra and the Food Safety Agency.
