Wiltshire Council in successful prosecution for breach of planning enforcement

A Wiltshire man has been successfully prosecuted by Wiltshire Council for non-compliance with planning enforcement notices at a site in Bromham.

Douglas Robert Ward of Greenacres Mobile Park in Semington was found guilty of all offences and was fined a total of £26,166 which included full costs and a victim surcharge. The case was heard at Salisbury Magistrates Court. The offences in this case relate to a site in Bromham.

The enforcement notices cover various matters including the unauthorised use of the land for residential purposes and the unauthorised stationing of caravans, the unauthorised erection of fences and gates, the unauthorised and formation of hardstandings, and the unauthorised introduction of domestic paraphernalia. 

Mr Ward did not attend court, but the case was permitted to continue in his absence.

Cllr Nick Botterill, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning, said:

"We don't seek prosecutions lightly but take all breaches of planning enforcement very seriously. When we've seen such a flagrant disregard for the law as we did with this case we were left with little option, and I'm pleased with the outcome

"If planning permission isn't authorised for a particular development then it is totally wrong and irresponsible to proceed regardless, and this can cause major issues for the surrounding area and the locals who live there.

"We will continue to pursue full compliance with the enforcement notices in place regarding this particular site,"

The case was heard on 30 May 2022.