A mechanics which set up business in illegally constructed outbuildings has been fined £4,000 and ordered to stop using the structures after being brought before the courts.
Ali Butt, appeared on behalf of the company, Mobile Car Services, at a hearing at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on 7 August where the company was fined after 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 was told how the company flouted planning regulations by setting up premises in outbuildings behind shops in Watling Avenue, Burnt Oak. Planning officers found that 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 went unheeded.
In addition to the £4,000 fine, the company was ordered to pay £500 in costs and a victim surcharge of £170. They are now also required to cease using the buildings.
Chairman of the Planning Committee, Councillor 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.”