Planning Condition land man in Court

Ignoring a planning condition in south Warwickshire can be costly. That's the message from Stratford-on-Avon District Council after another successful prosecution last year by its planning enforcement team.  

Last year magistrates fined a Napton householder £250 plus costs, for building a replacement house with a flat roof terrace, instead of the sloping roof which was required by the planning approval. A Breach of Condition Notice was served, requiring that the roof be constructed in the approved manner to protect the amenity of his neighbours. Alternative planning design options were considered and subsequently refused, so when he continued to retain the flat roof, Mr. Laye was taken to Court where he was fined.  

"This case recognises the importance of protecting the amenity of neighbours from unauthorised development, and the need to comply with planning rules," said Cllr Stephen Thirlwell, the Executive Portfolio Holder for Planning.  

"People who continue to break these rules and threaten the character and amenity of the District risk legal action and significant penalties. Communities sometimes accuse us of not doing enough to enforce those rules, so I hope this will demonstrate that the Council does indeed have teeth and we will not be deterred from taking action, when appropriate."

Non-compliance with a Breach of Condition Notice is an offence, which is punishable by a fine of up to £1,000.