Major housebuilding firm, defended by Ben Williams KC, cleared of environmental charge

The Defendant, one of the UK’s largest housebuilders and a FTSE250 company, faced an allegation that sewage effluent had been deliberately pumped from foundation trenches into a natural watercourse, following a sewer blockage at a housing development in Sedgefield. The charge had been vigorously defended throughout proceedings lasting several years.

At trial this week, Ben Williams KC followed the prosecution’s opening speech with a statement to the jury explaining the company’s position and the issues in the case. However, after the key witness was then called to give evidence, the Environment Agency reviewed its position and offered no further evidence meaning a Not Guilty verdict was returned by the jury on the judge’s direction.

Ben was instructed from the outset by Gateley Legal.

Press Coverage:

 https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0q2ynx0jdgo.