A Coupar Angus resident is facing potential legal repercussions from Perth and Kinross Council following unauthorized renovations to his C-listed flat on Union Street. Norrie McDermott, who purchased the property above the Scotmid store in May 2023 for £39,999, carried out refurbishment work in his living room, including alterations to the skirting boards, ceiling cornicing, and fireplace. The council issued an enforcement notice in February, stating these changes were made without the necessary listed building consent and have “harmed the character” of the property. The notice also cited concerns over the replacement of the external fascia with “unsympathetic vertical boarding.” Council Demands Restoration, Threatens Prosecution
The council’s enforcement notice set a deadline of March 17 for Mr. McDermott to restore the living room and fascia to their original specifications. Failure to comply could result in prosecution. The specific areas of concern, as outlined in the enforcement notice, are the removal of the original skirtings and ceiling cornicing, the alteration of the fireplace, and the replacement of the exterior fascia. The council’s position is that these alterations are detrimental to the historical and architectural integrity of the C-listed building. Homeowner Seeks Retrospective Consent
In response to the enforcement notice, Mr. McDermott submitted a planning application seeking retrospective consent for the alterations. In his application, he explained that he was unaware that the listed status extended to the interior of the flat and that the initial work was intended to address issues like a pigeon infestation in the attic caused by a damaged roof. The installation of the uPVC fascia was meant as a temporary measure to protect the property from further damage. He maintains that the living room refurbishment aimed to modernize the space for contemporary living. Mr. McDermott’s application indicates his intention to reinstate the fascia and carry out further work on the living room to meet the required standards. The outcome of this application will determine whether he avoids prosecution, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. Council to Decide on Retrospective Application
The council is currently reviewing Mr. McDermott’s retrospective planning application. Their decision holds significant weight for both the homeowner and the broader community. If approved, the application would grant retrospective consent for the alterations, effectively resolving the enforcement issue and precluding further legal action. However, if denied, Mr. McDermott could face prosecution and be required to undertake costly restoration work. This case highlights the importance of understanding listed building regulations in Perth and Kinross, particularly for those considering renovations or alterations. It emphasizes the council’s commitment to preserving the area’s architectural heritage and the potential consequences of undertaking unauthorized work on listed properties.
This unfolding situation has implications for homeowners across Perth and Kinross. It underscores the necessity of researching and obtaining the appropriate consents before commencing any work on listed buildings, regardless of the scale or intent of the project. This is especially crucial in Perth and Kinross, a region rich in architectural history, where the council actively works to maintain the character of its listed properties. Seeking advice and guidance from the council’s planning department before starting any renovations is highly recommended for owners of listed buildings to ensure their projects align with regulations and avoid potential legal difficulties.
The council’s enforcement notice set a deadline of March 17 for Mr. McDermott to restore the living room and fascia to their original specifications. Failure to comply could result in prosecution. The specific areas of concern, as outlined in the enforcement notice, are the removal of the original skirtings and ceiling cornicing, the alteration of the fireplace, and the replacement of the exterior fascia. The council’s position is that these alterations are detrimental to the historical and architectural integrity of the C-listed building. Homeowner Seeks Retrospective Consent
In response to the enforcement notice, Mr. McDermott submitted a planning application seeking retrospective consent for the alterations. In his application, he explained that he was unaware that the listed status extended to the interior of the flat and that the initial work was intended to address issues like a pigeon infestation in the attic caused by a damaged roof. The installation of the uPVC fascia was meant as a temporary measure to protect the property from further damage. He maintains that the living room refurbishment aimed to modernize the space for contemporary living. Mr. McDermott’s application indicates his intention to reinstate the fascia and carry out further work on the living room to meet the required standards. The outcome of this application will determine whether he avoids prosecution, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. Council to Decide on Retrospective Application
The council is currently reviewing Mr. McDermott’s retrospective planning application. Their decision holds significant weight for both the homeowner and the broader community. If approved, the application would grant retrospective consent for the alterations, effectively resolving the enforcement issue and precluding further legal action. However, if denied, Mr. McDermott could face prosecution and be required to undertake costly restoration work. This case highlights the importance of understanding listed building regulations in Perth and Kinross, particularly for those considering renovations or alterations. It emphasizes the council’s commitment to preserving the area’s architectural heritage and the potential consequences of undertaking unauthorized work on listed properties.
This unfolding situation has implications for homeowners across Perth and Kinross. It underscores the necessity of researching and obtaining the appropriate consents before commencing any work on listed buildings, regardless of the scale or intent of the project. This is especially crucial in Perth and Kinross, a region rich in architectural history, where the council actively works to maintain the character of its listed properties. Seeking advice and guidance from the council’s planning department before starting any renovations is highly recommended for owners of listed buildings to ensure their projects align with regulations and avoid potential legal difficulties.