COCKBURN CEMENT will be in court Monday to answer pollution charges laid by WA’s environment watchdog.

The trial has been a long time coming, as the alleged offence occurred four years ago—April 28, 2010 to be precise—and the company has since upgraded its plant with bag filter systems.

Environmental regulators allege the company breached its licence by not mixing highly alkaline dust with water before disposal, which led to a toxic dust shower for nearby residents.

If convicted, the company faces fines of up to $625,000.

The trial is scheduled to last till June 6 at Perth Magistrates.

by STEVE GRANT