Westminster City Council has mandated the owner of a listed 18th Century townhouse in Mayfair to destroy an unauthorized basement and restore original features removed during renovations. The extensive alterations prompted a refusal for planning permission, cited as harmful to the building's historic interest. Despite an unsuccessful appeal, the council discovered that the owner had executed the unauthorized work and removed historic elements. A 12-month deadline has been set for the owner to complete restoration; estimated costs may reach hundreds of thousands of pounds. The council stresses accountability for violations of planning rules.
Westminster City Council said the entire new sub-basement must now be re-filled. The space currently houses a cinema, gym and sauna.
Councillor Geoff Barraclough stated, 'I hope this outcome sends a clear message: those who ignore planning rules will be held accountable.'
Barraclough added that the owner showed a 'complete disregard' for the historic significance of the property and the council's decision.
The planning application was submitted in 2010 but was refused after the Planning Inspectorate deemed it would harm the building's 'special architectural and historic interest'.
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