After the devastating fire and demolition at the former site of the Crooked House, South Staffordshire Council leader Cllr Roger Lees issued the following statement:
“Our officers carried out a site visit to the site yesterday (August 7th), prior to the demolition of the building.
“Officers agreed a programme of works with the landowner’s representative to ensure the safety of the building and the wider site.
“The agreed course of action included the removal of three elements of the first-floor front elevation only. This was only to avoid the weak parts of the structure from falling.
“At no point did the council agree the demolition of the whole structure nor was this deemed necessary.
“This council finds the manner in which the situation was managed following the fire completely unacceptable and contrary to instructions provided by our officers.
“As such, we are currently investigating potential breaches of both the Town and Country Planning Act and the Buildings Act.
“Demolition of a building should be carried out in accordance with Schedule 2 Part 11 Class B of The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015. The steps required by the legislation were not carried out in this case.
“We have referred these matters to our legal team with a view to taking enforcement action.
“As soon as we were made aware of the breaches during the demolition, we notified the Health and Safety Executive.
“We are also liaising with many other relevant statutory bodies, including Historic England, the police and fire services, amongst others. These bodies will take the lead on investigating the issues surrounding the fire, safety of the unauthorised demolition and securing the ongoing safety of the site.
“Our own investigation is in its early stages and whilst it continues at pace, we as ask for time to consider the facts thoroughly to ensure any future actions are meaningful and proportionate.
“The council is incredibly saddened by the loss of the building which, whilst not listed, was a heritage asset and important landmark to the local area and community.
“Over recent months, the council had been in conversation with the relevant national bodies regarding how best to protect and preserve this important heritage asset.”