This is 66 Wightman Road. In August the Landlord appealed to the Bristol Planning Inspectorate against the Local Authority Planning Department's ruling that it had been illegally converted into 10 flats without planning permission. The appeal was rejected and the Planning Inspector ruled that it must be re-instated. However, the lawyer for the Landlord claimed extra time would be needed to allow current tenants to find new digs. This was granted and the time set at 6 months not 3. So why is the Landlord using Paul Simon to advertise for new tenants now at £137 per week? [£1370 for ten units, so in the additional 3 months that's roughly £15000]. http://www.rightmove.co.uk/property-to-rent/property-27309089.html?...
Yet further evidence that PS are the premier rogue agents in this area ignoring legislation in all areas. If you haven't yet signed the PS petition, link is on front page.
Paul - are you really saying that the beige house in the middle has 10 dwelling units in it! God knows what the living conditions must be like. The money grabbing b*******.
Yes, it's on the East side of Wightman so the land drops away behind. There's a level below that which is visible. The doorbell box is like spaghetti. It has 10 postal addresses listed on the Council's database and the Planning Dept. first served notice in 2007. The conversion occured in 2006. It took months with workmen going in and out. Since the Planning appeal in August there has still been a regular turnover of new faces going in and out. There seems to be utter contempt for the Planning Law and the Inspectorate.
So what do we do? I assume you've sent a letter to the planning inspector? Anything else we can do? Anyone at the local council we can notifty? Paul Simon should be told they're renting out illegal bedsits too.
That is sickening. If there is anyone we can write to/email could you post the details here. No wonder people go to the lengths they do to cram a few more flats in when that's the sort of money you can make. Shouldn't they need to give some of the rent back, surely they can't be allowed to sign any new agreements with hapless tenants while it is subject to a conversion order?
Honestly, the description of the flat just makes you want to laugh (and cry):
"A large top floor studio flat available now. The property offers stunning views, huge amounts of storage and wood flooring throughout + communal gardens. A spacious living/dining/sleeping area with a separate shower room and fitted kitchen area." How is that possible? Is the house a tardis??
Nora - great idea to see if you can have a look around.
I'm looking into a conversation with the Inland Revenue given that we know all the relevant details. If large amounts of income are being generated then it is a matter of public concern that the applicable tax laws are being followed. This might be a more persuasive route to follow than just going back through planning.