A dispute between London Distillers Kenya (LDK) and Erdemann Property over the Sh3.2 billion GreatWall Gardens phase 3 housing project in Athi River, Machakos County has kicked off in Nairobi.
LDK, which is challenging the ongoing construction of the housing project, had attempted to adjourn the hearing by the Environment Tribunal on Thursday but its efforts failed.
LDK's lawyer, Makongonya Tiego, stated that the industry had filed an application before Judge Angote of the Environment and Land Court (ELC) Machakos to consolidate the matter at the tribunal with that before the judge.
Residents of the housing project had complained that LDK was emptying toxic wastewater into the surrounding area, leading to discomfort and diseases.
LDK had written to the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), arguing that GreatWall Gardens sat on an industrial zone and should, therefore, be brought down.
Benjamin Langwen, a former NEMA employee, testified that Erdemann should have done a Strategic Environmental Assessment Report for the project.
The hearing will continue on July 30, when Erdemann is expected to present its witnesses.
