High Court Halts Illegal Parking of 300 Cars in Harlington Field

In a groundbreaking move, the High Court has issued an injunction to put an end to the unauthorised parking of over 300 vehicles on Green Belt land in Harlington. This decision comes after a series of complaints from local residents brought attention to the issue.

Uncovering the Violations

Following the complaints, enforcement officers discovered that hundreds of cars were being illegally parked on a privately-owned site accessible via Manse Close. Not only were these vehicles in violation of planning rules, but officers also came across illegal structures and the use of gravel to reinforce the ground.

Residents further raised concerns about the excessive number of heavy goods vehicles accessing neighbouring roads, exacerbating the already precarious situation.

Immediate Action Required

The High Court order mandates that the land and its boundaries must be fully cleared and restored to their original state by February 14. The consequences of breaching this injunction are severe, as it constitutes contempt of court and could lead to imprisonment.

Cllr Steve Tuckwell, Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing and Growth, expressed solidarity with the residents, acknowledging their frustrations. He emphasised the importance of the High Court’s intervention in addressing the issue promptly.

Prompting Change and Accountability

This judgment marks a significant milestone in the council’s ongoing efforts to combat unlawful activities at Manse Close. Despite previous enforcement measures, the offenders continued their operations unabated, prompting the necessity of legal intervention.

In a statement, Cllr Tuckwell highlighted the offenders’ blatant disregard for the local community and safety, prioritising financial gain over adherence to regulations. The High Court’s decisive action serves as a deterrent to others engaging in similar activities.

Residents are encouraged to report any unauthorised land use or planning breaches through the council’s official website to ensure accountability and safeguard the integrity of their neighbourhood.