Freedom of Information and Environmental Information Requests

Environmental Information Requests

The Environmental Information Regulations 2004 (EIR) give you the right to access information about the environment from public authorities. The regulations make sure important data on topics such as air and water quality, pollution, waste management, and land use is made available on request.

WRS holds environmental information in relation to the functions it undertakes. Where possible this is published on the website where it can be readily accessed. Unlike FOI you can contact WRS directly to make your request for information.

Please see the WRS EIR Policy for full details.

Charges for information requests will be applied where it reasonably appears that the information requested is likely to be in the interests of only the individual making the request, and not the wider public.  However, information which can be collated and formatted within 30 minutes is free of charge.   Similarly, access to any public registers of environmental information held by us or to examine (where possible) any information requested at our offices will be free of charge. 

Requesters will be directed to information publicly available or where it information has been published elsewhere at the time of request free of charge.

Where request relates to 'environmental information held by WRS' an hourly rate charge applied to locate and provide the information requested which is quoted at time of request. It is calculated as an estimate at a rate of £53.00 per hour.

A request for Environmental Information can be made by anyone. Requests can be made in writing or verbally, although a well thought out, written request is likely to provide more clarity and allow for a more accurate response to be provided.

Under EIR a response has to be provided within 20 working days. Where the request is especially complex or voluminous, the Regulations allow for a response time to be extended by an additional 20 working days.  Should a time extension be required, the requester will be notified.

There are a number of reasons or exemptions where public authorities can refuse to disclose information under the Regulations. Further information along with links to the relevant guidance is available from the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).

What information do I need ?

Depending on what information you are seeking WRS offers the following templates based on frequently received requests.

• If you are buying or selling a property then you can fill in the House Buyer application.
• If you require EIR for professional risk assessment then you can make your request using the Professional application.
• Alternatively you can contact us via enquiries@worcsregservices.gov.uk and request the ‘environmental information’ you require.