Residents demand €1.4 billion from Tata Steel over pollution and property damage
Residents near Tata Steel’s IJmuiden plant are pursuing a class-action lawsuit seeking at least 1.4 billion euros in damages, claiming years of exposure to harmful emissions, persistent nuisance, stress, and declining property values, AD reports.
The lawsuit, filed by the advocacy group Frisse Wind, covers approximately 330,000 affected residents, including 53,000 children.
“There will certainly be many people among those 330,000 who are not even aware of their harm but who have nonetheless suffered damage from Tata Steel,” personal injury lawyer John Beer told AD.
Beer, who indicated more than two years ago that the case would go to court, said the legal process will first determine whether Frisse Wind can represent such a large group in a class action. If approved, the court will then assess Tata Steel’s liability and decide on the compensation amount.
The proceedings are expected to take years, and much will depend on how Tata Steel responds. Ultimately, any awarded funds will go to the residents who have suffered harm.
Frisse Wind cites both physical and mental health impacts, including stress, anxiety, and structural nuisance from odor, dust, and noise. The group also emphasizes that property values in the surrounding area remain suppressed due to proximity to the steel plant.
The claim builds on the five-year-old WAMCA law, which allows organizations to bring claims on behalf of large groups.
In addition to the civil lawsuit, Tata Steel faces an ongoing criminal investigation. Five years ago, lawyer Bénédicte Ficq filed a complaint on behalf of multiple parties, including Frisse Wind, alleging the company deliberately released substances into the soil, air, or surface water that endanger public health — a criminal offense punishable by up to 12 years in prison.
“That case is still ongoing,” Ficq said, noting that the Public Prosecution Service has not yet reached a decision.
