Home / Environment / Charity Sues NRW Over Farm Permit Approvals
Charity Sues NRW Over Farm Permit Approvals
18 Feb
Summary
- A charity is suing Natural Resources Wales over farm pollution.
- The lawsuit concerns permits for three new poultry units.
- The charity argues NRW is failing to regulate farm pollution.
An environmental charity has initiated legal proceedings against Natural Resources Wales (NRW) concerning the approval of permits for three poultry farm expansions. The charity, River Action, alleges that NRW has failed in its duty to prevent chicken manure from polluting the River Wye.
River Action claims NRW wrongly stated it lacks the authority to regulate manure once it leaves a farm site, arguing that the law mandates assessment and control of foreseeable off-site pollution. This legal action is seen as a test case to ensure NRW properly utilizes its powers to protect sensitive rivers.
Concerns about water quality in the River Wye and River Severn, where the poultry units are located, have been ongoing. The River Wye's status was downgraded to "unfavourable - declining" in 2023. While farming representatives argue producers adhere to regulations and that agriculture is unfairly targeted, environmental groups emphasize the need for comprehensive catchment management.
NRW has acknowledged being aware of the proceedings and stated it will not comment further as the legal process is underway. This legal challenge underscores the critical need for effective environmental regulation to safeguard Wales's vital river systems.
