New enforcement powers
Article 3 ‑ Planning contravention notices
This Article provides for the issue of a planning contravention notice, the purpose of which is to strengthen the Department's power to obtain information prior to taking enforcement action, to encourage dialogue with any persons thought to be in breach of planning control and to secure their co‑operation in taking corrective action. Failure to comply with such a notice within 21 days of its service is an offence, liable on summary conviction, to a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale (currently £1,000). In addition any person who makes a false or misleading statement in respect of a notice is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale (currently £5,000). Failure to comply with a notice could also affect any future entitlement to compensation payable in connection with stop notices.
