An update from Flamstead Parish Council:
We are delighted to share some very positive news with the village following today’s High Court judgment regarding the unauthorised development at Friendless Lane.
The High Court has ruled in favour of Dacorum Borough Council and granted a final injunction, which, amongst other things, prohibits anyone from residing on the land. The Court has allowed one month for the order to be complied with.
In reaching his decision, the Judge accepted the evidence presented by Dacorum Borough Council and found that there was no residential occupation of the site when the original High Court injunction was served on 5 April. He concluded that the continued development of the site after that date was a persistent and flagrant breach of both the Court’s injunction and the Temporary Stop Notice.
The Court carefully considered all relevant matters, including the human rights of those involved and the welfare of the children, but concluded that the balance clearly favoured granting the injunction. The Judge also found that the planning application submitted contained false information.
Today’s judgment is an important victory for the rule of law, the planning system, our Green Belt and the Chilterns National Landscape. It sends a clear message that planning laws and Court orders must be respected.
This has been a long and incredibly difficult few months for many people in our community. We’d like to thank everyone who has supported the efforts to protect Friendless Lane—whether by reporting concerns, providing evidence, attending meetings, or simply showing patience and resilience throughout the process.
Our sincere thanks also go to Dacorum Borough Council’s legal, planning and enforcement teams, Caroline Bolton KC, our MP Victoria Collins, Flamstead Parish Council, Hertfordshire Police and all those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to achieve today’s outcome.
The case has attracted national attention and today’s decision has been reported by the BBC, highlighting the significance of this judgment.
While the defendants may still seek permission to appeal, this would require the Court’s approval and today’s decision represents a significant milestone.
Above all, today is a day to recognise what can be achieved when a community comes together. Thank you to everyone who has supported this effort. We hope this marks the beginning of the next chapter in restoring and protecting this special part of Flamstead for future generations.
Flamstead Parish Council