High Court injunction granted to stop unauthorised use of green belt land in Harlington

Following complaints from residents, an investigation by the council's planning enforcement team found hundreds of cars were being illegally parked on a privately owned site accessible via Manse Close. 

As well as the breach of planning control regulations, with vehicles parked on the site for storage and sale by multiple parties, council officers also found illegally erected structures and gravel used to reinforce the ground to allow vehicles to move across the site. Many residents also complained about high numbers of heavy goods vehicles accessing neighbouring roads. 

The High Court order requires the land and boundary to be fully cleared and restored to its former condition by 14 February 2025. Deliberate breach of an injunction is contempt of court and can result in imprisonment.  

The judgment is a significant step in the council's ongoing efforts to halt the unlawful activities at Manse Close. When granting the order, the judge stated that despite the council issuing a range of other enforcement measures, it was clear there has been no intention to cease the unauthorised use of the land.  

Cllr Steve Tuckwell, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing and Growth, said: "We share residents' concerns and frustration, and I'm pleased the High Court has recognised the urgency of this issue by granting the injunction to finally bring the illegal activities to an end. 

"The offenders have shown a flagrant disregard to the local area and safety of the neighbourhood by ignoring previous enforcement notices for financial gain. 

"We are committed to keeping residents safe and to protect precious green belt land and will always take robust action to ensure our planning rules are enforced." 

To report the unauthorised use of land or a planning breach, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/planning-enforcement.