A mechanics firm that set up shop in unauthorised shacks have been fined £4,000 and ordered to move out.
Mobile Car Services operated from outbuildings built without planning permission behind shops in Watling Avenue, Burnt Oak.
Appearing at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on August 7 on behalf of the company, Ali Butt pleaded guilty to planning offences.
Mr Butt’s business partner, Philip Grant, failed to attend court and a warrant was issued for his arrest.
The court heard planning officers found the company was operating from a structure constructed from timber sheeting and corrugated plastic roofing, and under an adjacent canopy.
Neither of the structures had planning permission.
In March 2017, the owners were served with a planning enforcement notice requiring them to cease using the buildings or to submit a retrospective planning application.
No application was received, and subsequent enforcement notices were ignored.
In addition to the £4,000 fine, the company was ordered to pay £500 in costs and a victim surcharge of £170. It must also stop using the buildings.
Planning committee chairman Cllr Wendy Prentice said: “This company has been operating from a building with no planning permission and failed to take action despite numerous enforcement notices from the council.
“Planning regulations are there for good reasons, and I hope this prosecution and fine send out a very clear message to anyone else considering flouting the rules.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here