In England and Wales three regimes address polluting or potentially polluting emissions;-

• Emissions from certain industrial and commercial processes are subject to the Pollution Prevention and Control Act 1999 and its 'Permit' system. This is regulated by the Environment Agency (for large 'Part A1' installations and activities) and by Local Authorities (for smaller 'Part A2' and 'Part B' installations and activities).
• Certain types of smoke pollution are subject to the Clean Air Act 1993, also enforced by local authorities.
• Pollution from most other sources is potentially subject to Statutory Nuisance legislation, and must be 'prejudicial to health or a nuisance', for action to be taken. The legislation is enforced by Local Authorities (the 'Council').

In the case of Nottingham City Council the Noise & Pollution Control Team is responsible for the regulation of Part A2 and Part B installations and activities, and the investigation and enforcement of clean air and nuisance legislation.  

The Noise & Pollution Control Team also has responsibility for land contamination issues with regard to planning applications, and the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

Pollution of rivers and lakes is dealt with by the Environment Agency - click here to visit the Environment Agency website.