Man Ordered to Demolish Illegal Flats Built in Gloucester Barn After Planning Appeal Rejected

Sean Gorman, a resident of Severnside Farm in Walham, Gloucester, has been instructed to dismantle flats he constructed inside his barn after Gloucester City Council ruled the development illegal. The flats were built on agricultural land within a flood risk area without the necessary planning permission.

The 58-year-old received an enforcement notice requiring the removal of all fixtures and fittings, including wiring and plumbing, that made the space habitable. Gorman challenged the notice, appealing to the government’s planning inspectorate in a two-day inquiry, arguing that the enforcement order did not apply to him, citing his gypsy status—a protected characteristic—and claiming the notice was improperly served.

The planning inspector rejected these claims, confirming that Gorman had been personally served the notice and had ample opportunity to seek legal advice and appeal. Gorman also argued that the flats had existed and been in continuous residential use since 2020. However, the inspector found inconsistencies and insufficient evidence to support this, noting the absence of tenancy agreements for much of the claimed period and describing Gorman’s evidence as contradictory.

Consequently, Gorman has six months to comply by ceasing residential use of the flats and removing the fixtures. Failure to comply may result in further legal action.

A council representative emphasized the importance of planning regulations in protecting the city from unauthorized developments and stated the council is committed to enforcing these laws impartially to ensure Gloucester serves the interests of all residents.