A widely reported story is that of the demolition by developers of a landmark public house in London just days before the building was going to be considered for listed status.
If a property is deemed to be of special or architectural interest it may have listed status awarded and once the listing is made, the property may not be demolished, extended or altered without the consent of the Local Planning Authority.
The case of the Carlton Tavern in Maida Vale is interesting because the demolition took place prior to the listing process being completed. However the developers in question had some time previously been refused planning permission to develop the site. The London Evening Standard newspaper has reported that:
'Council chiefs will next week issue an unprecedented enforcement notice to the firm that owns the Carlton Tavern in Maida Vale requiring it to recreate in facsimile the building as it stood immediately prior to its demolition' … 'It is thought this is the first instance of a local council ordering a building be reconstructed from the ground up.'
Whilst this is an unusual case, it is a timely reminder of the importance of ensuring that all planning issues relating to a property are properly resolved either at the point that works are to be carried out or when a property that has been altered is being purchased. A failure to comply with planning and listing requirements can lead to enforcement action being taken against the current property owner, even if they did not carry out the unauthorised works.
To discuss planning matters, contact us.