15 - Planning officers offer advice on security fencing

 

Planning officers are urging businesses to approach them for advice before fencing is put up, as many forms of security require planning permission.

 

The planning inspectorate this week (May 13) supported Dudley Council’s decision to ask for razor wire fencing to be removed from the Royal Oak pub in High Street, Amblecote.

 

The razor wire was put on the building in July 2007 without any permission. Following numerous unsuccessful requests by the council for it to be removed, the council was left with no option but to serve an enforcement notice on November 20 last year for the fencing to be taken down.

 

The landlord of the pub appealed against the decision but this week the planning inspectorate supported Dudley Council’s view that the razor wire is 'inappropriate in this location and materially detracts from the character and appearance of the surrounding area'. The notice requires that the razor wire is removed within one month of this appeal decision.

 

 

 

“Whilst the council fully understands and appreciates the need for businesses to implement adequate security to protect their premises, it is important that appropriate security measures are considered. These measures not only need to provide the necessary protection, they must also not detract from the visual appearance of the property or the wider area.”

 

Anyone wishing to install security measures are advised to consult Dudley Council’s planning office on 01384 812345. Any proposals should be submitted in writing to Development Control, Dudley Council, 3 St.James’ Road, Dudley, DY1 1HZ.