This archive report was first published on 22 August 2019.
On August 22, 2019, a long-standing dispute between London Distillers Kenya and Erdemann Properties over alleged pollution affecting Erdemann's housing units in Athi River escalated, with the two parties opting to settle the matter in court.
The dispute, which has been ongoing for some time, centers around air pollution and the disposal of waste into the waters of River Athi. London Distillers has now moved to court to block phase three of Erdemann's housing project, citing concerns over the project's proximity to the distillery.
According to London Distillers, the housing project has ignored a buffer zone provided by law and argues that setting up the project adjacent to the factory is a breach of industrial and residential planning regulations.
London Distillers has also accused Erdemann of failing to consult with them during the compilation of an environmental impact assessment report, which they claim is a requirement for any development project in the area.
The dispute has been ongoing for some time, with both parties accusing each other of waste water disposal endangering residents' health. The National Environment Management Authority (Nema) has been involved in the dispute, but has failed to resolve the matter amicably.
London Distillers has now filed a lawsuit against Nema, seeking to block the licensing of Erdemann's project. Erdemann has been named as the second respondent in the lawsuit.
