Success in significant judicial review about water pollution
October 19, 2026
The High Court has handed down an important judgment on the scope of Natural England’s duties to protect internationally important conservation sites. In R (Harris) v Natural England [2026] EWHC 2488 (Admin), Lieven J. held that Natural England had acted unlawfully by failing to take appropriate steps to address nutrient pollution affecting Catfield Fen, Norfolk, an important wetland that is part of the Broads Special Area of Conservation and the Ant Broads and Marshes Sites of Special Scientific Interest. David Hercock and Douglas Scott acted for the successful claimant.
A copy of the judgment can be found here.
