Liberal Democrat councillors in Highgate have welcomed moves to enforce planning regulations in Highgate following the controversial removal of a shop front at Café Nero earlier in the year. The removal of the historic timber frontage within the Highgate conservation area has been unpopular with local residents and the Highgate society, and the Lib Dems say the new alterations should never have taken place.

The Council has now moved to issue a ‘Breach of Condition’ notice due to the failure to comply with the replacement conditions on the listed building.

Highgate councillor Neil Williams comments:

“The planning process only works if it is properly enforced. I am pleased therefore that the council is taking action in this case, although it should have happened sooner. Local residents have rightly been dismayed at the alterations, which should clearly not have been allowed at what is a Grade II listed property.

“It is important that action is taken, and I am very pleased that local residents and the Highgate Society have been so steadfast in their work against such planning breaches which spoil the conservation area.”