Belfast firm Phoenix Law is representing Noeleen McAleenon, one of a number of local residents who have complained about an odour attributed to emissions from the now-decommissioned site.

She contends that the Court of Appeal misjudged her situation by suggesting alternative remedies were available to address the regulatory oversight of Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) in response to pollution.

According to her lawyers, the case has wide-ranging implications for individuals who seek to bring public authorities to court seeking environmental protections on the basis of their human rights.

Ms McAleenon said: “My appeal is not just a legal matter; it’s about addressing pollution, upholding human rights, and ensuring accountability in environmental regulation.”

Harry Robinson of Phoenix Law, who acts for the residents, said: “This case goes beyond legal technicalities. It’s about local people affected by pollution who are seeking justice, and it raises broader questions about environmental protection, public decision-making, and the rights of individuals impacted by harmful emissions.

“We hope that this will be the first of many steps toward achieving some assurance for ordinary people that they can count on public authorities to honour their commitments to protecting the environment.”