Full Breakdown
Retired Couple Sues Environment Agency Over Historic Property Damage
3/24/2026, 9:31:26 PM
Background of the Case
Roger and Suzanne Brookhouse, owners of The King’s Lodging, a Tudor royal residence in Sandwich, Kent, are suing the Environment Agency for £4.5 million. The couple alleges that flood defense work conducted by the agency has caused significant damage to their Grade II-listed property, which has historical ties to King Henry VIII, who surveyed his fleet from its windows in 1520.
Core Claims and Allegations
The Brookhouses contend that the Environment Agency's construction of a new flood defense wall in 2014, positioned one meter further into the River Stour, has led to a rise in groundwater levels. This increase has resulted in severe damp issues, including cracked and bulging walls, and a ruined garden that was once thriving. Their claim for £4.5 million includes costs for repairing the house, addressing groundwater issues, restoring their garden, and replacing a swimming pool that they assert has been rendered unusable.
Judicial Findings
In a previous ruling, Upper Tribunal Judge Elizabeth Cooke found the Environment Agency liable for the damage, confirming that the agency's work had indeed caused groundwater levels to rise by up to a meter. Judge Cooke noted that the property had suffered more in recent years than it had in centuries. The current tribunal is focused on determining the appropriate compensation amount.
Environment Agency's Position
While the Environment Agency acknowledges its liability to compensate the Brookhouses, it disputes the £4.5 million figure, labeling it as “excessive and disproportionate.” The agency argues that this amount exceeds the property's maximum estimated value of £1.9 million. Galina Ward KC, representing the agency, suggested that the damage could be managed through standard repair and maintenance processes, rather than the extensive measures proposed by the Brookhouses.
Criticism of Claims
The Environment Agency's legal team has also challenged the necessity of replacing the swimming pool, arguing that it was nearing the end of its useful life as of 2014. They maintain that the Brookhouses' claims lack sufficient evidence to justify the requested compensation.
What's Next
The tribunal proceedings continue as both parties present their arguments regarding the compensation amount. The outcome will determine the financial responsibility of the Environment Agency for the alleged damages to The King’s Lodging.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The building appears to have suffered more in the last few years than it has done in the last few hundred,” — James Pereira KC, representing the Brookhouses.
- “Ms Ward added that the agency has always sought to deal fairly with the claimants and accepts compensation is due for the garden and house damage.” — Galina Ward KC, representing the Environment Agency.
