Most people will doubtless know that many of the Royal’s own large property portfolio’s.  Prince Charles, as Duke of Cornwall is no exception.  Prince Charles’ property portfolio  includes the former offices of the Metropolitan Police at Tintagel House on the Albert Embankment in London.  This property has recently hit the headlines due to Lambeth Council issuing a Planning Enforcement Notice in respect of the property.

Tintagel House is held on a 140 year lease by a company called Galaprice.  Since the property was vacated by the Metropolitan Police the building has been occupied by “Property Guardians” as a security measure.

Lambeth Council has issued Enforcement proceedings alleging that the occupation of the property by the Property Guardians constitutes a conversion of the property from commercial to residential use meaning that planning permission is required.   In particular, Lambeth’s argument focuses on the building being turned into 11 self-contained flats without any consideration given to the requirement for the affordable housing, transport and other policies that are currently in force.

The Enforcement proceedings have been issued against all persons interested in the building and recipients include “His Royal Highness Charles Philip Arthur George”.   The Notice has given the inhabitants and owners nine months to vacate the property.

According to London SE1 Community Website this action by Lambeth Council comes as some surprise as it had been widely accepted that occupation of empty premises by Property Guardians is not a change of use and advice previously given by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister in 2005 would appear to support this

In recent years more owners are using Property Guardians as a cheap an effective way of tackling the problem of empty commercial buildings the result of the case will be eagerly reviewed by legal professionals.

                                                       At Newnham & Jordan Solicitors we are able to assist and advise you with regard to a variety of  property related issues

 Call us now on 0845 680 7871

This article is intended for general information purposes only and  shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. Newnham &   Jordan Solicitors, in Wimborne Dorset, cannot accept  responsibility for   any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in  respect of this   article or any external articles it may refer or link to.

Angie Newnham
Article by Angie Newnham
Having worked for various law firms in the Bournemouth and Poole area Angie Newnham decided to set up her own business in 2010. Angie’s experience covers a range of legal disciplines including Property Law and Conveyancing, which includes both residential, commercial and agricultural work, Social Housing, Landlord & Tenant issues, Wills, Lasting Power of Attorney and a niche interest in equine law and equestrian agreements.

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