“Industrial activities causing multiple forms of interference can constitute nuisance.”
The claimants lived near an Esso oil depot. They complained of noise from tanker movements at night, vibrations, noxious smells from the boiler house, and an oily smut that damaged their property and washing.
Whether various forms of interference from industrial premises could constitute actionable nuisance, and what remedies should be available.
The court found in favour of the claimants on multiple grounds, awarding damages and granting an injunction for some of the nuisances.
This case demonstrates how nuisance law addresses multiple simultaneous interferences from industrial activities. It shows the courts' willingness to grant both damages and injunctive relief, making it important for understanding nuisance remedies and the assessment of industrial pollution.
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OSCOLA Citation
Halsey v Esso Petroleum Co Ltd [1961] 1 WLR 683
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