East Midlands Airport to stand trial after allegedly polluting River Trent with de-icer

• Watch ITV News Central Correspondent Phil Brewster's report from outside court.

East Midlands International Airport Ltd will stand trial next year accused of polluting a river with de-icer.

The airport is facing a prosecution from the Environment Agency following a campaign by an angling group.

The company is alleged to have polluted the River Trent and the nearby Diseworth Brook after using de-icer on its planes and runway.

The airport has a permit to release waste water, but is accused of breaching the permit by causing sewage fungus outbreaks.

Defence counsel Jim Buchanan, on behalf of the airport, pleaded not guilty to six charges – including causing a water discharge activity and alleged failures to comply with an environmental permit between 2021 and 2022.

The airport’s managing director, Steve Griffiths, attended Derby Crown Court on Thursday but was not required to speak during proceedings.

East Midlands Airport, based in Castle Donington, is now set to stand trial on 19 May next year.

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know…