Property Owner Faces Enforcement Action After 'Unlawful Holiday Let Conversion'...

The Grove, in Hartlepool's West Park

Council set to undertake Enforcement Action against a property owners alleged unlawful change of use of a family home into a Short Term Holiday Let.

20th March 2025

A homeowner is said to be facing potential enforcement action by the local council, after allegedly converting their plush family home into a short-stay holiday let without obtaining the necessary permissions from the council.

HBC Exposed understands that the property, located on The Grove in the towns West Park area has been converted into a holiday rental without seeking the approval of Hartlepool Borough Council. This has now reportedly led to an enforcement investigation, with the council said to be 'considering legal action' to address what they claim is a clear breach of planning regulations.

According to a council officer's delegated decision report, planning and enforcement officer D. James, in consultation with Tony Hanson, the council's Director of Neighbourhood Services, has recommended enforcement proceedings, following claims the property owner has failed to cooperate with the council’s investigation, leading to the decision to take action being made...

Under UK planning law, an unauthorised change in property use—particularly if it constitutes a "material change of use"—can result in enforcement measures being taken by the local council itself. This could require the homeowner to revert the property back to its original use or face penalties, including fines or even a court order compelling the property owner to put the home back to its permitted use. .

The property owner is said to have been given until May 8th to comply with the council’s directives. Failure to do so could escalate the situation, potentially leading to further legal action and financial consequences.

This case highlights the importance of adhering to planning regulations when altering the use of residential properties. Whilst holiday lets can provide economic benefits, council planning officers stated that they must comply with local rules to avoid enforcement action being taken for their unauthorised change of use.