PROPERTY OWNER PROSECUTED BY COUNCI

Thanet District Council has successfully prosecuted a Margate man for
failing to adhere to legislation relating to the maintenance of his
property. 

Alan Newington of Beresford Gardens, Cliftonville, appeared before
Dover Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 31 May. He was found guilty of
the non-compliance with a section 215 notice of the Town and Country
Planning Act concerning his run-down and semi-derelict property. 

Mr Newington – who pleaded not guilty – was fined £250 with costs
of £390.71 and a victim surcharge of £15. 

The notice was served upon Mr Newington because of the adverse effect
his property was having on the local amenity. He has been advised that
the notice must be complied with, or further proceedings will be
instigated by the council. 

The council’s Principal Enforcement Officer, Steve Albon, said: “If
enforcement notices are not complied with, the council will seek to
prosecute. 

“In this particular case, the property was having a negative impact
on the local environment, and the council had a duty to act. We’re
pleased with the outcome of the court case and will pursue all similar
cases vigorously.”