Moray Council has vowed to get tough on illegal developments after authorising enforcement action against homeowners who have “ignored” planning rules.
A property in Forres and another in Cullen have both been found to have breached conservation rules in recent days.
Now planning officers at the authority have been tasked with ensuring that residents either restore the buildings to how they were before or apply for proper permission.
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Both of the breaches concern timber-framed windows that have been replaced with a modern design in conservation areas.
The zones have been set up in each town in order to protect the historic characteristics of each community.
Yesterday, David Bremner, chairman of Moray Council’s planning and regulatory services committee, stressed it was essential that rules were adhered to.
He said: “Having a property that is listed or lies in a conservation area is an asset and the responsibility of making changes to such properties needs to be taken seriously.
“Ill-considered changes can have a serious negative impact on the character of the surrounding area.
“Action will be taken to regulate development that is carried out without the necessary consent to preserve the character of Moray’s heritage and protect our listed buildings and conservation areas from inappropriate and unauthorised development.”
Moray Council has already taken direct action to ensure sites conform with planning rules.
Last year a JCB was sent to tear up an “unlawful” concrete hard standing that had been set up at a Kinloss caravan park near Findhorn Bay.
Meanwhile, diggers have repeatedly been sent to Old Mills in Elgin in an attempt to ensure the secluded spot is kept tidy.
Mr Bremner explained there was “no excuse” for flouting the regulations due to the council offering free advice for homeowners considering altering listed buildings.
He added: “Contact can always be made first to assess works that may need planning permission or other consent.”