Lakeminster Inquiry Success for Trinity Planning Barrister

Trinity planning barrister, Nicola Allan, was instructed by East Riding of Yorkshire Council in a recently concluded planning Inquiry relating to a retirement village with approximately 140 residents, at Lakeminster Park near Beverley, East Yorkshire. 

The Planning Inspector who chaired the Public Inquiry, John Braithwaite, upheld the Council’s refusal of planning permission for 76 units on Lakeminster Park to continue being used as permanent residences. The Planning Inspector commented when reaching the decision that the breach of planning control at Lakeminster Park was “serious and, if not remedied, would set a precedent for similar breaches elsewhere.” The Planning Inspector added “The enforcement action taken by the council was expedient, proportionate, and in the public interest.” 

The Inquiry, held at County Hall, Beverley, followed the refusal of a retrospective planning application and enforcement action by the Council seeking removal of the units from the site. Twelve of the local residents also argued that the enforcement action would result in the loss of their homes and lifestyle and would be in breach of their Human Rights. 

Nicola, who is also a Chartered Town Planner, heads Trinity Chambers' Planning group and is a member of Trinity’s Agriculture,Business, Chancery, Judicial Review and Regulatory practice groups.