CLTX Limited have appealed against Westminster council’s ruling that the pub, which was destroyed without permission in April, be rebuilt ‘brick by brick.’
In appeal documents submitted to Westminster council, the developers said they were not aware that they should have sought prior permission before demolishing the building. They also took issue with Historic England’s claim they were ‘very likely’ to recommend that the building be listed, writing: ‘Historic England has not stated with certainty that it would have recommend the building for listing and there is no guarantee the Secretary of State would have accepted the recommendation. It is arguable therefore that the council did not have authority to issue the enforcement notice.”
Westminster council must now refer the case to the planning inspectorate, who will open an inquiry.
Elsewhere, local Conservative councillor Thomas Crockett has criticised the Health and Safety executive for their decision not to prosecute the Carlton Tavern developers.
Crockett said: “This decision has seriously angered me. I remain of the view that resident’ deserve to see those responsible for the demolition prosecuted for their disregard to healthy, safety and welfare.”
The Health and Safety Executive said it has taken other steps to hold CLTX to account and said it will re-investigate the case if there is new evidence.
Anyone who took photos or filmed the demolition is being asked to come forward