Ignoring planning laws in south Warwickshire brought robust action from Stratford-on-Avon District Council Planning Enforcement Team, when the setting of a Listed Building and a Conservation Area were affected.
An Enforcement Notice was issued when an unauthorised shed, trellis, close boarded fencing and gates were erected in the grounds of the Grade II Listed Broom Tavern, set within the Broom Conservation Area. After an unsuccessful appeal to the Planning Inspectorate the shed and fencing had to be removed by March 2007. However this was only fully achieved when the Council threatened to prosecute both the Licensee and the landowners.
"All efforts to achieve a negotiated solution were unsuccessful. Issuing an Enforcement Notice clearly showed our commitment to protecting Listed Buildings and the Conservation Area from unauthorised development, and preserving our heritage for all," said Gary Fisher, Enforcement Manager.
"It was important to us to ensure that the Notice was complied with. People who ignore those requirements and threaten the character of the district, risk legal action and significant penalties.
"Communities sometimes accuse us of not doing enough to enforce those rules, and sometimes consider that buildings and structures in situ are a fait accompli, so I hope this will demonstrate that the Council will not be deterred from taking action when we have to."
Non-compliance with an enforcement notice is an offence, which because of its seriousness is punishable by a fine of up to £20,000.
