London’s Tower Hamlets Council is considering taking legal action following the unauthorised demolition of ‘several’ unlisted properties in the Coldharbour conservation area.
Tower Hamlets Council writes:The council is considering taking legal action following the unprecedented unauthorised demolition of several unlisted properties in the Coldharbour conservation area.
The three properties in East Ferry Road were inspected two years ago by the council, after concerns were raised that they were structurally unsound.
However, detailed inspections by Tower Hamlets’ building control team concluded that the buildings were secure and that it was not necessary to serve a dangerous structure notice.
The council issued several reminders to the property owners explaining that it is a criminal offence to carry out demolition works in conservation areas without planning permission from the local authority.
The demolition has angered many locals and the council is now considering a range of remedial options – including taking legal proceedings.
John Biggs, mayor of Tower Hamlets, joined locals in condemning those responsible. He said ‘I am outraged by this unwarranted and illegal demolition. The council is looking at its legal options, but in my view, the owners should be made to replace these properties like for like, brick by brick. This action is unprecedented in our borough. I can assure those who have been understandably distressed by this that the council takes protection of heritage assets seriously and we will thoroughly explore all of the options and seek to take the strongest legal remedy possible.’
A council spokesperson said: ‘Three properties at 2-6 East Ferry Road in Coldharbour conservation area have been demolished without planning permission. It is an offence to demolish buildings in conservation areas without permission and the council is currently considering initiating legal proceedings against the owners of the properties.’
