In Black Dog, a dispute unfolds over a property used as a home for over ten years, despite its original commercial use restrictions. A legal certificate is sought.
Black Dog: A land use dispute is heating up. A property has been a home for over ten years, even though it was meant for commercial use. Now, a legal certificate is being sought to recognize it as a residence.
Kate Povey submitted the application for Little Emlett Orchard. She wants it officially recognized as a lawful home, despite past rules saying it should only be used for business.
Planning consultant Martin S. Lee prepared the request. He argues that the property has been a home for at least ten years. This time frame protects it from local authority enforcement.
To support the application, there are declarations from former occupants and documents like council tax records and utility bills. These show the property has been lived in continuously.
Mr. Lee believes the evidence is strong enough for the certificate to be granted quickly. He says there’s no reason for delays or further questions from the local planning authority.
The property is a simple single-storey building. If the certificate is approved, it will make its residential use official and stop any council enforcement actions.
Local planning authorities will decide based on the evidence provided. Mid Devon District Council will check if the property has indeed been used as a home for the required time.
