Agenda item

9.1

The Director of Regeneration and Development Services submitted a report on his investigation into complaints received, concerning a breach of planning control in respect of the unauthorised siting of 2 caravans and 4 metal containers on land at the Oak Lodge Farm Livery Yard, Thompson Hill.  The report referred to officer meetings/correspondence with the land owner and occupier of the land and to a Planning Contravention Notice that had been served to establish the current use of the land and concerning the siting of the caravans and containers.  In addition, the Notice also asked for information as to the reasoning for tyres being stored on the land.  It was stated that, other than known information about the site, no further information had been received from the owner, occupier or their representatives and that the unauthorised use of the caravans and containers on the land was still taking place.

9.2

In view of the enforcement action being sought, as it would likely mean the removal of living accommodation from the aforementioned land, Article 8 and Article 1 (First Protocol) of the Human Rights Act 1998 was detailed and reasons given why interference with the occupiers’ Human Rights on this occasion was necessary and justified.

9.3

The Committee heard oral representations from the owner of the containers and caravans who outlined the need for them to remain on site, that he had held meetings with neighbours and had a petition containing 100 signatures supporting improvements to the site.  In response, the meeting was informed by the Director of Regeneration and Development Services that, as the caravans and containers had not been removed from the site and as a Certificate of Lawful Use/planning application had not been submitted, it was necessary that enforcement action was sought in respect of the matter.

9.4

RESOLVED: That (a) having considered the requirements of Articles 8 and 1 (First Protocol) of the Human Rights Act 1998, the Director of Regeneration and Development Services or Head of Planning be authorised to take all appropriate steps including, if necessary, enforcement action and the institution of legal proceedings to secure the cessation of the use of the land for stationing caravans for residential accommodation and provision of welfare facilities, their removal and for the removal of the unauthorised containers also sited within land at Oak Lodge Farm Livery Yard, Thompson Hill; and

(b) the Head of Planning, in liaison with the Chair of this Committee, be authorised to vary the action in order to achieve the objectives hereby confirmed, including taking action to resolve any associated breaches of planning control.