A property owner has been ordered to pay over £29,000 after failing to comply with planning enforcement action taken by a London council.

In 2019, Barking and Dagenham council found a property in Dagenham had been unlawfully subdivided into two separate dwellings and the owner – Faikul Choudhury – served with an Enforcement Notice requiring the property to be returned to a single dwelling.

After numerous visits found this had not happened, legal proceedings were initiated.

Choudhury has now pleaded guilty and this month he received a 12-month conditional discharge and a Proceeds of Crime Confiscation Order totalling £29,523.32. 

The amount must be paid within three months or Choudhury faces three months’ imprisonment in default of payment.

In addition, Barking and Dagenham council was awarded £2,000 in costs.

A spokesperson for the authority says: “This case demonstrates that we will not hesitate to take action against those who disregard planning regulations and undermine the character of our neighbourhoods.

“Residents rightly expect planning rules to be followed, and we are grateful to those who report concerns to us.

“This successful outcome sends a clear message that non-compliance can have serious financial consequences.”