A property owner in Dagenham has been fined nearly £30,000 for failing to comply with planning regulations regarding an unauthorised extension.

In October 2009, Mohammed Yasin purchased a property on Becontree Avenue, Dagenham, which he rented to tenants. In April 2019, planning enforcement officers from Barking and Dagenham Council discovered a large extension at the rear of the premises. 

An investigation by the Planning Enforcement Team revealed that the extension, measuring six metres in depth, exceeded permitted development rights and required planning permission. Mr. Yasin was informed of this requirement.

Despite multiple reminders and a refused retrospective application, the extension remained in place. In April 2021, an Enforcement Notice was served, requiring the extension to be reduced to a maximum of three metres or removed entirely. By May 2023, no action had been taken, leading to criminal proceedings.

On 19 November 2024, at Romford Magistrates’ Court, Mr. Yasin of Levetts Gardens, Ilford, was sentenced after pleading guilty to the offence. He was fined £22,500, with additional costs to Barking and Dagenham Council of £5,182 and a Victim Surcharge of £2,000, totalling £29,682.

Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety, commented: "This significant fine sends a clear message that we will not tolerate non-compliance with planning regulations. 

“Our priority is to ensure that all buildings meet the required standards to maintain the quality and safety of our community as well as making sure everyone is playing by the same rules."