HC Deb 05 July 2001 vol 371 cc242-3W
Bob Russell

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what powers are available to him when a local authority fails to enforce the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 against owners who are in contravention of their obligations. [1930]

Ms Keeble

The Secretary of State has powers to issue listed building enforcement notices and conservation area enforcement notices. He can also take court action against those who carry out works to listed buildings or in conservation areas without the necessary consent, or in breach of a condition attached to a consent. The Secretary of State may also prosecute owners who deliberately damage listed buildings. It is the Secretary of State's policy to take enforcement action or to prosecute only in exceptional cases.