Homeowners across Hounslow are being warned not to fall foul of planning regulations when making alterations to their properties

In a move to crack down on unauthorised conversions and extensions, Hounslow Council’s new administration is putting more money into planning enforcement. The new initiative fulfils on a manifesto commitment to get tough on people who carry out work in breach of planning and building regulations.

Typical breaches include building house extensions and loft conversions; sub-dividing properties into two or more residences, and converting and letting out buildings such as sheds and garages.

The new money will be spent to improve staffing resources to help tackle planning enforcement cases and cover associated legal costs.

Cllr Barbara Reid, the council’s executive member for environment and planning said "Unauthorised building works will no longer be tolerated in our borough. We made a clear commitment in our manifesto to tackle the problem and this new approach shows we mean business.

“People need to be aware that if they go ahead with a development without the necessary permission it could cost them a lot of time and money. They may be required to put things back as they were and, if they refuse, they could even face prosecution.

“The planning and building regulations are designed to protect all residents from unnecessary and unsafe developments. Upholding these regulations more rigorously is another step towards making the Borough of Hounslow a better place to live.”

In a separate but related move, the council has introduced new measures to improve conversation and urban design in the borough. As a result, more resources will be allocated to the management and improvement of conservation areas, tree protection and new build projects.