Nearly 4,000 residents, businesses, and river users have launched what is believed to be the UK’s largest environmental pollution lawsuit, targeting Avara Foods, Freemans of Newent, and Welsh Water over alleged contamination of the Wye, Lugg, and Usk catchments.
The case, filed in the High Court in London on behalf of claimants represented by law firm Leigh Day, accuses the companies of polluting local rivers with poultry manure, sewage runoff, and excess nutrients since 2019, allegedly harming wildlife, land values, tourism, and local livelihoods.
Avara Foods has strongly denied the allegations, telling the BBC it believes “this legal claim is based on a misunderstanding, as no manure is stored or spread on poultry-only farms that supply Avara Foods.”
The company said it is confident there is “no case to defend,” arguing the claim overlooks historical fertiliser use on arable land and noting that manure from its operations is sent elsewhere.
The claim is led by Leigh Day international and group claims partner Oliver Holland, who said: “We see this legal claim as the culmination of an extraordinary effort by local community members and campaign groups to research, monitor and advocate for their rivers. The claimants have watched their rivers become the subject of national press coverage, public campaigns, Parliamentary debates and government pledges. Formally commencing this legal action is a concrete step towards protecting these vital national ecosystems.
“The court will now hear leading experts on the allegations of environmental harm, and will be asked to order those responsible to clean up these rivers, and restore these communities and wildlife that depend on them.
“This is the largest legal action concerning environmental pollution ever brought in the UK. In a context where government and regulators have failed to prevent the degradation of our rivers the court has become the last avenue for justice. Our clients believe they have no other option but to seek accountability through the legal system – and this marks the next step in that journey.”