Overview
The complaint concerned a breach of planning permission which was acknowledged by the Highland Council (the Council) but where, the complainant (Mr C) alleged, little action had been taken.
Specific complaint and conclusion
The complaint which has been investigated is that despite complaints that a condition of planning consent had been breached, the Council delayed and took little action (upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman recommends that the Council:
(i) proceed to implement enforcement action without delay and in the event that they fail to achieve compliance, seek to implement an appropriate penalty; and
(ii) offer Mr C a fulsome and sincere apology, reinforced by a payment to recognise the time and trouble involved in pursuing the matter and making his complaint, and the impact on his home over the years.
The Council have accepted the recommendations and will act on them accordingly.