Property developer told to DEMOLISH block of flats after IGNORING planning permission
A PROPERTY developer has been ordered to tear down a multi-million pound block of flats because he ignored his plans.
The developer was also accused of leaving tenants in cramped and sub-standard accommodation.
The man, who has not been named, submitted detailed plans for the 12 flat block in 2008, in Earlsfield, south west London.
He was granted permission by Wandsworth Council to build nine one-bedroom and three two-bedroom flats, but the greedy builder ended up cramming eight two-bedroom and four one-bedroom flats in, two of which were built in the basement.
Chair of the council’s Planning committee Councillor Sarah McDermott said: “This is a shocking case of a property developer who clearly thought he could get away with totally ignoring planning rules.
“The building really is an eyesore that does not meet any design standards.
“On top of that he has crammed in way too much residential space leaving tenants in cramped and sub-standard accommodation.”
The basement flats, which have little to no natural light, have already flooded twice.
The building really is an eyesore
She added: “Worst of all the basement flats are in a well-known flood plain and as a consequence people living there have twice been flooded out, losing valuable possessions and suffering quite avoidable pain and upset.”
“It is difficult to recall a more outrageous flouting of the planning laws and for doing so, I’m afraid he must remove what is there and replace it with a new building that conforms to design standards and provides the people living there with proper facilities and appropriate living space.”
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The developer has now been issued an enforcement notice that states he must replace the building with one that conforms to standards by October 2017.
Local residents took to the Wandsworth Council website to applaud the move.
One, Celia Blair said: “Arrogant and greedy landlord. Serves them right. Well done Wandsworth Council.”
But others were concerned demolishing the building would be a waste of raw materials.
An anonymous resident wrote: “Well done to the Council for enforcing this. But this is a huge waste of raw materials that won't be able to be recycled.
“Why didn't the Council inspect the site during the building works so that the building works could be stopped before the full building was completed?”