LOSRA frequently gets asked about breaches of planning policy and how to enlist the support of the Enforcement Officers at Spelthorne Council. Whilst we have no criticism of the EOs and appreciate the difficult job they are required to do with limited resources, we nevertheless welcome a plan which formalises the Council's responses to complaints by our members.
We have been informed that Spelthorne Council approved a Local Enforcement Plan at its Cabinet meeting on 24 September. This sets out the Council’s approach for dealing with unauthorised development and carrying out enforcement activities.
Planning permission is needed for many types of development and changes in use of land or buildings. Permission is also required to erect many forms of advertisements and there are controls to protect listed buildings and preserved trees. When development or work takes place without permission, or not in line with planning permission or conditions placed on it, the Council has various legal powers to take what is called 'enforcement' action to remedy the problem.
The Local Enforcement Plan sets out how the Council prioritises complaints received about unauthorised building work or uses of land, sets service standards for dealing with initial complaints; and provides information on how complaints are to be processed and the range of enforcement options available. The plan states that priority will be given to dealing with those complaints which relate to actions which cause the most harm and that the Council will usually seek to prosecute those who damage listed buildings or fell protected trees.
To read the Local Enforcement Plan visit www.spelthorne.gov.uk/enforcement
