Background

The area at the Springwell Lane entrance to Stockers Lake has been utilized as a scrap yard without planning approval for some time. Representations have been made to Hillingdon Council to use their enforcement powers to address this activity, but so far, no action has been taken successfully. The owners have now applied for retrospective planning permission. There are inaccuracies in the application form.

It was noted that the applicants had been refused retrospective planning permission for their scrap metal operations. It appears they are expanding their activities and may have appealed against the decision, allowing them to continue their operations which impact the environment.

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On Thu, 17 Apr 2025

An Enforcement Notice was served on 6th September 2024 against the unauthorized use of the land as a scrap metal site following the refusal of retrospective planning permission. The operators submitted an appeal to the Planning Inspectorate.

The Planning Inspector issued the appeal decision on 28 March 2025. The appeal was dismissed and the enforcement notice upheld with minor amendments. The compliance period is one calendar month, meaning the operators have until 28 April 2025 to comply.

The requirements of the notice are to:

·         Cease the use of the land as a scrap metal yard.

·         Demolish and remove all associated metal sheet fence panels and wooden posts.

·         Remove all skips, scrap metal, gas canisters, tyres, and waste materials.

·         Remove all vehicles and machinery associated with the scrap metal yard.

·         Clear all debris, items, and building materials resulting from compliance with the above points.

A site inspection will be conducted on or shortly after 28 April 2025. If the notice has not been complied with, prosecution proceedings may be instigated. Failure to comply with an enforcement notice is a criminal offence and can result in an unlimited fine.

Regarding environmental concerns, the Environment Agency conducted a joint inspection of the site with Council Officers in February 2024. They have powers to require actions where necessary. Since the inspection, no environmental concerns have been communicated by the Environment Agency. The Council has taken action within its authority to address the breach of planning control.

Planning Enforcement Team Leader (North)

Planning and Sustainable Growth

Place Directorate

Hillingdon Council

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