Erection of Overground Electricity Pylons

We have been approached by the Somerset Alliance Against Pylons (SAAP) to challenge the plans of the National Grid to construct their ‘preferred route’ – a corridor of pylons almost 50 metres in height stretching from Bridgewater to Seabank across the Somerset countryside. Clearly the alternative to overground (ie underground) is much more costly – this is, accordingly, a matter of national importance.

We have advised SAAP as to the legal principles that apply in this matter; both substantive and procedural.  We have been working to protect the beautiful scenic views enjoyed by the current residents of the area from the blight these pylons would bring.

CLARS has also acted as agent to incorporate SAAP as a Community Interest Corporation so that they might bring their action against the National Grid united as a body corporate.

CLARS is actively pursuing an out of court resolution to this matter by way of negotiation.  It is our hope that by showing the National Grid how adverse their plans are to the local area and how contrary its plans are to the existing legal framework.  If informal resolution is not achieved then the matter will proceed to judicial review.

The Devonport Incinerator

CLARS has taken instruction from the Buckfastleigh Community Forum to object to plans to convert Whitecleve Quarry site to a site whereby waste from the Devonport Incinerator would be sent to be ‘processed’.  There are significant disputes as to the level of toxicity of this waste and whether it is safe for such a processing facility to be put on a Site of Special Scientific Interest and within a mile of two primary schools and two villages.

The 2002 Review of Old Mineral Permissions (ROMP) state that this kind of activity may not be carried out at this site and that it is only to be used for mineral extraction.  The change of use application would be contrary to this provision.

The group has instructed an expert in the field of environmental planning law.  He is currently advising on the planning process for this activity while CLARS is focusing on the ROMP application with a view again to preparing judicial review proceedings.

Thames Water Sewerage Proposals

CLARS is to assist the Thamesbank group (headed by Lady Dido) with its objection to the construction by Thames Water of a sewerage infrastructure.  Such a construction would appear to be contrary to the UK’s obligations under the EU Water Framework Directive; albeit that Thames Water claims to be complying with it.   It is considered that Thames Water plan to construct an inefficient system. Thamesbank’s technical advisers believe that there are better more efficient and eco-friendly solutions, such as localised reed beds.

CLARS is assisting the technical advisers as regards the requisite research necessary for production of a full proposal document to Thames water.

Recognizing the Crime of Ecocide

CLARS is working closely with Polly Higgins; the activist for recognition by States that destruction of the environment should, in certain circumstances, be a  crime.

A mock trial on ecocide will be held on June 15th. 2012. A number of leading legal personnel will participate in the trial which will serve to explore the issues.

This is a prequel to a test case before the courts.  Currently we are working with various charities through our oceanic expert, Tom Appleby, to find a suitable test case eg overfishing in the North Sea.

Excessive Logging in the Solomon Islands

Malaysian Companies are engaging in excessive destruction of woodland in these islands.  CLARS has been asked to represent the native Voko people of the Solomon Islands whose lands and homes are threatened by this over-logging.

As a member of the Commonwealth, the UK has a moral duty to protect the Solomon Islands, especially their native inhabitants, from exploitation from other Commonwealth members.

In lieu of formal action from the UK against the Malaysian Companies, CLARS will represent the native inhabitants of the Solomon Islands in their efforts to preserve their environment.

Nailsea Caravan Site

CLARS is advising local residents in the Nailsea area as to the nuisance being caused by a caravan site.  The site is causing significant disruption to the local people who have since instructed us to give advice as to any potential civil claim or injunction they have against the operator of the site.

Franchised Coffee Houses

The Gloucester Road in Bristol is famed for being one of the longest stretches of independent shop/cafe owners in Europe.  A national chain of coffee houses has recently opened one if its shops on the Gloucester road without due planning permission and CLARS is accordingly advising on this matter on behalf of the traders and residents of Gloucester road.

Grant of North Sea Fishing Licences by DEFRA

A problem highlighted in national newspapers, "Who should have the right to catch fish?

As fisheries are privatised around the world, this film looks at the case of Britain – and shows how a small number of powerful companies are benefiting from privatisation, while the majority of fishermen are being left behind." - The Guardian, Wednesday 28 December 2011

 >> view video