The pressures on UK rivers, lakes, lochs and coastal waters are increasing year-on-year. Using the law is likely to become increasingly important for all those with an interest in protecting the aquatic environment. It is an immense task to understand the complex legal framework applicable to rivers, lakes, lochs and the sea.  The Water Framework Directive, the Habitats Directive, the water industry periodic review process, control of diffuse and agricultural pollution and the day-to-day regulation of the water industry are just a few of the bigger challenges.

Gained over the last 20 years, Guy Linley-Adams has a detailed knowledge of water law, controlling pollution of rivers and coastal waters, aquatic nature conservation, access and the management of water resources across the whole of the UK.

In 2010 / 2011 Guy has advised a number of clients on abstraction licences, discharge consents and permitted activities on rivers in England and Wales. Guy issued judicial review proceedings against the Environment Agency, successfully negotiating changes to a relevant abstraction licence issued by the Agency to hydro-electric developers, avoiding damage to a migratory fishery. Guy has also advised a large landowner with respect to potential liabilities in relation to sewage sludge spreading and groundwater contamination.