Tag: Environment Agency

The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 17 September 2024.

The Environment Agency has successfully prosecuted a man for obstructing officers in the course of their duty at a site near Alfreton in Derbyshire.

At Southern Derbyshire Magistrates Court in Derby on 13 September 2024, Darren Lee Fretwell, 58, of Golden Valley Caravan Park, Coach Road, Alfreton was fined £2,239. He was also ordered to pay costs of £11,272.

The case against the driver of a lorry which had failed to stop for officers was withdrawn.

Fretwell, who is the landowner of Golden Valley Equestrian Centre and Golden Valley Caravan and Camping Park, admitted 2 charges of obstruction.

The court was told that in August 2023 Environment Agency officers received information that waste was being tipped on land at Golden Valley Equestrian Centre, in Golden Valley near Alfreton.

On 11 August 2023, an unmarked 8-wheel tipper lorry that had deposited waste on site failed to stop when instructed by an Environment Agency officer.

Fretwell had told the driver not to stop and to drive past the officer.

During the same visit, Fretwell also refused to permit excavators which were present at Golden Valley Equestrian Centre to scrape back top layers of soil to examine what had been deposited beneath.

Also on 11 August, Fretwell refused to provide waste transfer notes relating to waste which had been brought onto site when requested by an Environment Agency officer.

On 16 August 2023, the Environment Agency officers returned to Golden Valley Equestrian Centre, at the invitation of Fretwell, to conduct a follow up inspection.

In the course of the visit, officers considered they needed to visit a neighbouring site also owned by Fretwell.  This site is known as Wallis Gorse, and is on Long Lane, Golden Valley.  After some resistance to this from Fretwell, the officers visited that site.

This is where Fretwell again obstructed officers. He refused to provide waste transfer notes or delivery tickets relating to piles of sand containing shredded tyre rubber which were present.

During visits on both 11 August and 16 August, Fretwell was extremely abusive and hostile towards the officers.  On the second visit on 16 August 2023, this behaviour was captured on body worn video, which was played in court.

In mitigation, Fretwell said that he recognised that his behaviour on the 2 dates in question was unacceptable.

Speaking after the hearing, a spokesperson for the Environment Agency said:

This behaviour was totally unacceptable. Officers were carrying out their lawful duties to establish whether the site was acting in accordance with environmental regulations.

Hostile, abusive or obstructive behaviour such as that demonstrated in this case will not deter us from exercising our powers to protect the environment and communities and ensure a level playing field across the industries we regulate.

If people need to report an environmental incident, they should call our 24/7 hotline 0800 807060.

Members of the public can provide information 100% anonymously via CrimeStoppers on 0800 55 111 or online at [www.crimestoppers-uk.org] (www.crimestoppers-uk.org)

The charges:

1. On 11 August 2023 at land at Golden Valley Equestrian Centre, Codnor Lane, Golden Valley, Alfreton, Derbyshire DE55 4ES, Darren Lee FRETWELL intentionally obstructed an authorised person, namely Senior Environmental Crime Officer Iain REGAN, in the exercise or performance of his powers or duties contrary to section 110(1) and section 110(4)(b) of the Environment Act 1995.
2. On 16 August 2023 at land at Wallis’s Gorse, Amber Valley, Alfreton, Derbyshire DE55 4ES, Darren Lee FRETWELL intentionally obstructed an authorised person, namely Senior Environmental Crime Officer Iain REGAN, in the exercise or performance of his powers or duties contrary to section 110(1) and section 110(4)(b) of the Environment Act 1995.

Notes to Editors:

1. The Environment Agency is the principal body in England with responsibility for the regulation of waste management facilities and the transportation of waste, the investigation of environmental crime and the prosecution of environmental offences.
2. The cost breakdown was as follows:

Fine of £932 for each offence of obstruction, totalling £1,866

Victim surcharge of £373 resulting in a total fine of £2,239

Ordered to pay Environment Agency costs of £11,272

Total fines and costs of £13,511

The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 17 September 2024.

An £80,000 project to reduce flood risk and bring a boost to wildlife and habitat in West Yorkshire is complete.

The project at Chellow Dene Wetlands, near Bradford, took three months to complete and includes improvements to a wetland area to help slow the flow of water during heavy rain.

It’s been delivered by Aire Rivers Trust working together with the Environment Agency, West Yorkshire Combined Authority, Britvic, City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council, the Rivers Trust, and Friends of Bradford’s Becks.

As part of the work, meanders have been created in Chellow Dene Beck to bypass a weir and create a more natural flow, allowing fish to move freely and creating better habitat for wildlife.

A leaky dam, made of natural materials, has been installed in the beck. This will temporarily slow the beck’s flow during periods of heavy rain, allowing more flood water to enter the plain and reducing flows downstream. This water will then gradually make its way back into the beck.

It’s expected the wetlands will hold approximately an extra 180 cubic metres of water.

Wildflowers complete the project

The project has been completed by the planting of wildflower seeds, which will produce a vibrant display of wetland wildflowers, attracting pollinators and other important wildlife.

The local Scout group has also planted Alder and Bird Cherry trees on site that will provide food and shelter to birds and insects.

Simon Watts, Operations Manager at the Aire Rivers Trust said:

Urban wetlands are vital spaces for nature in our cities. This project shows how they can bring multiple benefits to Bradford.

With the help of our funders, we’re contributing to reducing water pollution and flood risk and allowing nature to flourish on our doorsteps. It will be exciting to watch the site develop alongside our volunteers over the coming year.

Ineke Jackson, Project Manager for the Environment Agency, added:

This important project is helping to improve biodiversity and water quality and help naturally slow the flow of water, bringing a variety of improvements for people and wildlife.

Improving the wetlands and the wildlife they support will bring further benefits by connecting people with nature.

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire said:

Here in West Yorkshire, we know all too well the devastating impact that flooding can have on our communities.

That’s why we’re investing in our flooding hotspots to slow the flow of water, protect homes and businesses, and support habitats and wildlife.

We’re dedicated to working with our partners at the Environment Agency and the Aire Rivers Trust to build a greener, more secure West Yorkshire.

The press release issued by the the Environment Agency on 12 September 2024.

The improvements to New Road flood defence work in Kendal were made following feedback from the community and through consultation.

Planning permission has been granted for a revised design for flood defences at New Road in Kendal by Westmorland and Furness Planning Authority following the planning committee deferring the application in May.

Feedback from local residents and interest groups on the original plans approved in 2019 as well as comments through the common land consultation shaped further improvements made to the flood scheme design by the Environment Agency.

The new design includes changes to the open aspect and accessibility through the area for both the local community and visitors.

The approved design includes a safer common access arrangement for the fairground and for other activities at the location.

The New Road flood wall complements the stonework and finish of Gooseholme Bridge and the wider flood scheme throughout Kendal, creating and maintaining a safe community green space with access for all.

The planning decision means work can now start on this section of the Kendal and Upper Kent Catchment Flood Risk Management Scheme which will better protect more than 1,920 homes and 2,250 local businesses from the impact of flooding.

Changes made in response to feedback

Environment Agency Flood and Coastal Risk Manager, Richard Knight said:

These changes to the original design have been made in response to the feedback from the community and interested parties.

We listened, we duly considered local people’s requests, and we believe the new design will enhance the town whilst providing better protection to homes and businesses against the very real threat of flooding.

Being granted planning permission for the New Road area heralds the start of the next part of the flood risk management scheme for Kendal.

It is important to get the scheme built as quickly as possible to protect the homes and businesses in this area of Kendal.

The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 15 August 2024.

Environment Agency investigation discovers beer importer had been an unregistered producer of packaging for 18 years.

The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 6 January 2024.

The Environment Agency is warning people to take care during the ongoing flooding.

Significant river flooding impacts are expected to continue today (Saturday) until Monday in parts of the Midlands, Lincolnshire and on the River Thames, due to the recent prolonged wet weather and intense rainfall. Parts of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire have seen increased river levels over the past 24 hours, with areas of Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire continuing to also be impacted.

At 1pm on Saturday 6 January, 207 flood warnings and 222 flood alerts are in place and Environment Agency teams are out on the ground with other emergency responders operating around temporary pumps, barriers and flood defences to help reduce impacts.

So far, more than 45,000 properties have been protected from flooding caused by Storm Henk in the last few days, but sadly around 1,800 properties have flooded.

While risks are likely to start reducing over the weekend, ongoing flood impacts are also likely across much of England over the next five days as some larger rivers slowly respond to recent and forecast rain. Many rivers are elevated and will remain so for several days.

The message to the public remains to check their flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation. Anyone driving is urged to not to go though flood water and follow advice of local emergency services on the roads.

Katharine Smith, Flood Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, said:

Significant river flooding impacts are still expected today and over the next few days across parts of the river Thames in Oxfordshire as well as the River Trent near Nottingham and the River Severn including Gloucester. The prolonged wet weather and intense rainfall has led to flooding impacts and our thoughts are with all of those affected.

Environment Agency teams are out on the ground, working to minimise the impacts of flooding where possible by operating flood defences and clearing watercourses. So far, more than 45,000 properties have been protected in the last few days. We also urge people not to drive though flood water and follow advice of local emergency services on the roads – flood water is often deeper than it looks and just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car.

People should check their flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation as well as following @EnvAgency on X, formerly Twitter, for the latest flood updates.

For images of operational activity by the Environment Agency, please see the South West, South East, and Midlands team’s accounts on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 5 December 2023.

Environment Agency teams in East Anglia and Lincolnshire are today reflecting on the 10th anniversary of the 2013 floods.

On December 5, 2013 a large storm coupled with high tides generated a coastal surge along the whole of the east coast of England. In some areas the tides were higher than those in the devastating floods of 1953.

Over 30 severe flood warnings, the highest level of warning the Environment Agency issues, were sent out to communities across Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk and Lincolnshire.

Thousands of people were evacuated from their homes in some areas with many staying in rest centres overnight. In other areas the water came in quickly and unexpectedly; in Lincolnshire alone 44 people had to be rescued.

The vital flood warnings and defences in place at the time mean that there was no loss of life. However, the devastating impact left by the flooding on homes and communities cost millions and led to further investment to reduce the impact of flooding.

In the decade since, millions of pounds have been spent to reduce flood risk on the east coast. In total, in Suffolk, Norfolk and Essex over £300,000,000 has been spent on sea and flood defence projects since 2013. In Lincolnshire, this investment was over £328,000,000 between 2013/2014 and 2021/2022.

One of the biggest investments has been in Boston, Lincolnshire which saw some of the most serious impacts in 2013, with over 800 homes being flooded across 55 streets.

The £120+ million Boston Barrier Scheme is a national priority project. The centrepiece of which, a tidal flood gate in the River Haven, has been fully operational since December 2020. It can be raised in around 40 minutes to reduce flood risk to over 13,000 homes and businesses in the town. Phase two of the scheme, which is currently in the design phase, will ensure Boston’s tidal flood resilience against future climate change predictions.

The 2013 tidal surge also had a major impact on communities around the Humber, which led to the formation of the Humber 2100+ Partnership. The partnership, made up of 11 local authorities and the Environment Agency supported by Internal Drainage Boards (IDBs) and Natural England, is working to develop a strategy for managing sea level rise and tidal flood risk around the estuary for the next 100 years.

In parallel with the development of the Humber 2100+ Strategy, investment on the ground has continued. An example of this can be seen in South Ferriby. Over 150 properties had their flood risk reduced by £14million defences which include 13 metre flood gates across the A1077. Together the defences also protect 3,000 hectares of agricultural land as well as vital infrastructure including the Scunthorpe to Grimsby railway line.

In East Anglia, Great Yarmouth, one of the areas impacted by the tides, has also seen investment. Earlier this year the second phase of works to improve defences in the town, known as Epoch 2, was completed. The £42.9 million works saw improvements to 4km of flood defence walls in the town, improving protection to 2115 properties.  A business case for Epoch 3 of the long-term investment programme for Great Yarmouth is currently in development.

In Suffolk, the Environment Agency is a partner in the Lowestoft Flood Risk Management Project. The town was also impacted when the surge hit with the railway line to Ipswich being closed for 5 days because of the flooding.

The Environment Agency continues to urge people to plan ahead for flooding by finding out if their property is in an at-risk area; signing up for free flood warnings; and knowing in advance what to do.

The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 4 December 2023.

Environment Agency takes further steps to modernise rod licencing to increase fishing benefits for anglers.

Nearly a quarter of a million pounds will be reinvested into fisheries by 2025 to better fund enforcement work, improve fisheries habitats and create more angling opportunities across the UK, the Environment Agency has announced today, as part of a transitional move to simpler rod licences.

After 31 May 2024, anglers will have the option to receive a rod licence via email or text, or an A4 letter, and will no longer receive plastic coated rod licence cards with illustrations.

Every penny of the £230,000 saved through reduced costs of printing rod licences will be reinvested into the Environment Agency’s fisheries work. Last year, nearly £21 million of rod licence income was reinvested to help improve England’s fisheries and angling facilities such as creating fish passes, supplying and stocking fish species and improving habitats for fish.

Since 2021, over one million digital licences have been issued to anglers, helping to reduce waste and progress the Environment Agency towards carbon net zero targets.

For the last 15 years, anglers have received rod licence cards with illustrations capturing the UK’s most iconic species such as the Gudgeon and the Perch. Artist David Miller has provided this service to the EA, adding an artistic flair to rod licensing.

Heidi Stone Environment Agency Fisheries Partnerships Manager said

We understand the popularity of the images on our rod licence cards amongst anglers, and want to thank David Miller for his unique and inspirational illustrations over the years.

As we look to deliver better value for money for anglers, we are changing our printing arrangements to print our licences in a more cost effective and environmentally friendly way.

The money saved from this move will mean even more of our rod licence income can be put back into our fisheries service, protecting and improving fish stocks and habitats, providing new facilities for anglers, and giving more people the opportunity to try fishing.

Anglers who purchase a rod licence after the 31 May will receive the new paper rod licence unless they choose to go digital. Direct Debit customers’ licences are issued before the service change is implemented; therefore, they will receive the same illustrated card as issued in 2023.

The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 13 November 2023.

The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 12 October 2023.

Work is underway to build a new £2million flood risk management scheme to better protect homes from flooding in the Pebble Mill area of Birmingham.

• New flood embankment will better protect more than 100 properties from threat of flooding from River Rea
• Construction work is underway and will be completed next summer
• Work includes new wildflower meadow providing food for bees and butterflies and nesting boxes for kingfishers.

The £2m scheme will provide better protection from the River Rea to more than 100 residential properties. The area has historically been impacted by flooding with the most recent floods taking place in June 2016 and May 2018.

The scheme will see the construction of a 250m embankment within the Pebble Mill Playing Fields reaching a peak of 1.2metres. There is a risk of flooding to properties in the roads around the playing fields when water in the River Rea exceeds the existing capacity of the site and the embankment will divert flood waters away from properties back into the River Rea.

The work follows the removal of four weirs undertaken in partnership with Birmingham City Council last year. The removal of the weirs has improved water flow as well as the water quality by allowing water to flow naturally. It also benefits fish and invertebrate species as weirs act as barriers to their movement.

When the embankment is complete the restoration of the playing fields will include the creation of a wildflower meadow, providing bees, butterflies and other pollinators with food throughout the year. The restoration will also include re-alignment and re-surfacing of public footpaths and improved planting and landscaping to encourage local habitat diversity and increase biodiversity. Kingfisher boxes were also installed at the site as part of the works.

Jon Saner, Senior Flood Risk Advisor, Flood & Costal Risk Management for the Environment Agency in the West Midlands said:

“We are delighted to be delivering this new flood embankment for Peddle Mill which will help to better protect homes in the area from the devastation of flooding in the area while also supporting wildlife.”

The work follows similar schemes for Selly Park North and Selly Park South also on the River Rea.

Furtherinformation

5.2 million properties in England are at risk of flooding

• The average cost of flood damage to a home is £30,000

• The average cost of flooding to a business is £82,000

• If you are flooded, temporary accommodation costs on average £10,000

• If you are flooded you are likely to be out of your home for an average of 5 months

• Know what to do when you receive a flood warning and download our three point flood plan – https://flood-warning-information.service.gov.uk/what-to-do-in-a-flood

The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 21 September 2023.

A multi-million project on the Essex coast has reached a new milestone after thousands of tonnes of rock armour arrived from Norway.

At Cockett Wick, over 14,000 tonnes of Norwegian Granite have been brought in by barge over the last 6 weeks to reinforce flood defences. The new armour, which was placed in front of the Jaywick Martello tower, is part of a much larger scheme to protect the community living along the coast.

The next phase of work is already underway as over 150 steel piles are being installed to help strengthen and raise the seawall. The construction of a new concrete wall and footpath will begin in the next few weeks.

Together, the work will help to protect over 3,000 properties and businesses. The changes will help ensure this part of the Essex coast remains protected despite climate change and sea level rise.

John Lindsay, Essex coastal engineer for the Environment Agency, said:

We’re really pleased with the progress that has been made at Cockett Wick so far. The work will make a real difference to improving flood protection for the local community.

We would like to thank the local community for their patience and understanding whilst we undertake these important works.

Everyone should know their flood risk and sign up for free flood warnings by visiting gov.uk and search flood or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188. You can also follow @EnvAgencyAnglia for the latest flood updates.

The defences are designed to be raised again in 50 years’ time to ensure another 50 years of protection, all while maintaining views of the sea.