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Council wins High Court injunction stopping Sawbridgeworth floodplain works

9/1/2026

22 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

East Hertfordshire District Council secured a High Court injunction halting unauthorised construction on the Sawbridgeworth wildlife floodplain.
Around 200 locals camped to protest the works over the bank holiday weekend.
Police entered Monday, reported occupants left peacefully and made no arrests.
A hearing on the alleged injunction breach is set for 15 September, though the council seeks an earlier date.

History

Historical Context

East Hertfordshire District Council’s 2024 High Court injunction stopping unauthorised work on the Sawbridgeworth floodplain, echoes earlier court orders that blocked development on a West Sussex wetland, underscoring the judiciary’s long-standing role in enforcing wildlife protection. The RSPB, a major conservation charity, reported £152.9 million income in 2024/25 and guiding local authorities facing similar disputes.

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Story summary

East Hertfordshire District Council secured a High Court injunction halting unauthorised construction on the Sawbridgeworth wildlife floodplain.
Around 200 locals camped to protest the works over the bank holiday weekend.
Police entered Monday, reported occupants left peacefully and made no arrests.
A hearing on the alleged injunction breach is set for 15 September, though the council seeks an earlier date.

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