UNLAWFUL development at an historic woodland in Cliviger could lead to planners being given more powers to enforce regulations.

Paul Dew began working on The Holme at Cliviger last week and council officers had to get an interim injunction from the High Court in Manchester to stop the work, which was obtained on Monday

In the meantime part of an historic wall was demolished, protected trees damaged and top soil was removed exposing bedrock.

Coun Harry Brooks criticised Burnley's officers for not acting quickly enough, but chairman of the planning committee Coun John Greenwood said they worked as speedily as they could.

Coun Enid Tate had asked for a stop notice to be made, but Coun Greenwood said it was thought Mr Dew would have ignored it and the council had to pursue the matters through the courts.

Coun Roger Frost said he didn't take any pleasure in criticising officers, but they knew it was going to take place and what had happened was nothing short of a disgrace.

He said hopefully something positive would come of it and there would be a change in the law to allow regulations to be enforced.

Coun Greenwood said: "If we win, I am sure we will send a message out to other people. If people go against planning laws it should be a matter for criminal law."

The council's injunction will be heard in about a week's time.

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