The owner of an 18th-century townhouse in Mayfair faces a mandate to demolish an unauthorized basement with luxury amenities, including a gym and cinema, after failing to appeal the Planning Inspectorate's decision. This restoration order by Westminster City Council aims to preserve the building's historical integrity, which had been compromised by the owner's refusal to adhere to planning regulations. The costly repair work, with a deadline of 12 months, highlights the consequences of disregarding historical preservation laws, as significant features were removed during the unauthorized renovations.
Geoff Barraclough, the council's cabinet member for planning and economic development, remarked that the owner showed a "complete disregard" for the historical significance of the property, alluding to a wider issue of accountability in planning regulations.
Inspectors ruled that the unauthorized alterations would harm the building's "special architectural and historic interest," signaling the importance of preserving historical integrity in urban developments.
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