Planning Appeal Decision – Spade Lane Site

What Was the Appeal About?

Swale Borough Council issued an enforcement notice because the number of caravans and pitches at the Spade Lane site had grown far beyond what had previously been permitted. A past temporary planning permission allowed the site to be used for no more than 8 pitches, with limits on how many caravans could be placed on each pitch. Council inspections and aerial photographs showed a significant increase in caravans, which led to the enforcement notice being served.

What Did the Inspector Decide?

The Planning Inspector reviewed the appeal and dismissed it. This means the enforcement notice remains in force. Only a small wording correction was made, but the Inspector confirmed that the number of caravans on site did exceed permitted levels, Swale Borough Council was correct to take action, the required steps in the enforcement notice are reasonable, and the previous planning permission has now expired.

What Happens Next?

The enforcement notice must now be complied with, which includes removing caravans and associated works that exceed the permitted number and restoring the land to its previous condition. The landowner must work with Swale Borough Council to meet the requirements within the set timescale.

Where Can I Read the Full Decision?

The full decision is available to the public on the Planning Inspectorate’s website or via Swale Borough Council’s Planning Portal.

Hartlip Parish Council’s Position

Hartlip Parish Council is not the decision-maker but is providing this update for residents. Any enforcement and follow-up actions will be handled directly by Swale Borough Council. Further updates will be shared when available.