Hi all.
Are there any specialists around who may be able to give me some high level advice before I dig further?
In a nutshell: I live in an area where there is a great deal of new build development. I'm not particularly thrilled about the extent of it, especially in comparison to the lack of increase in services, but I'm not exploding.
One particular developer has just begun building approx 150 new homes on an approved, authorised site. No problem. However - they have now developed a piece of land in a separate location, across a main road and approx 250 yards away, to become their sales site until the approved build is ready in Spring 18.
This land is owned by the landowner whom they bought the main chunk from.
They have not sought planning permission at all (council has confirmed).
They have essentially created a show office, made a road, planted gardens, got lighting, put up extensive signage, etc. etc - ripping our fields, hedgerows etc in the process. When challenged, their response was 'they thought the council would show discretion'.
Me and many other local residents are livid that a massive developer has completely flouted the rules and the council has more of less said - apply retrospectively and we'll go through the process.
The process - which will be opposed, and appealed, etc. etc., will give them what they want - an operational site until early next year, when they can move on to their main one.
Does anyone know if the Council should have powers to say "Halt using that unauthorised site until a result is given?". I've been told it's not likely, but that's the only way they will be affected...
Any advice gratefully received.