Melton council in Leicestershire has prosecuted a resident who pleaded guilty of failing to comply with a planning contravention notice which was issued regarding a suspected breach of planning. 

Donna Albery–Arrowsmith was issued with a planning contravention notice by Melton borough council, following a complaint from a third party that a dwelling was being used primarily as an Airbnb without the relevant permission. Albery-Arrowsmith failed to provide the requested information to the council which led to the case going to court.

Albery-Arrowsmith was fined £120, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £48 and pay the council’s full costs of the prosecution of £1,254.19. 

Council deputy leader Margaret Glancy says: “It is disappointing that Mrs Albery-Arrowsmith failed to respond to the notice to allow officers to investigate the alleged breach. Planning rules are in place for a reason and the council takes allegations of breaches very seriously. 

“I hope that this prosecution sends a clear message that breaches of planning and failing to cooperate with an investigation will not be tolerated and legal action will be taken if necessary. The success of this case demonstrates the positive partnership work from the planning enforcement and legal teams”.