A couple who refused to demolish a block of flats they own have been found guilty of non-compliance.

Derek Stansbury of Ponsonby Place, Pimlico, and his wife Susan bought the Waddon property in 2013.

Unfortunately for the pair, they were then informed by Croydon Council that when the flats were built (in 2010) it was not in accordance with the planning permission granted by council.

Mr and Mrs Stansbury were then ordered to demolish the set of flats, but refused, which led the council to take legal action.

Councillor Alison Butler was pleased to see the couple found guilty.

“It doesn’t matter whether you are a big developer or a private individual, the same planning rules apply,” she said.

“I am pleased these owners have been found guilty of failing to comply with the enforcement notice issued and this case shows if you break the rules, the council will pursue you until the relevant action is taken – we will not give up.

“The court proceedings do not affect the status of the enforcement notice, it still stands, and I urge the Stansburys to take action and demolish the building.”

Mr Stansbury was found guilty at Croydon Crown Court last on December 7 of non-compliance with an enforcement notice. Mrs Stansbury had earlier been found guilty of the same offence after standing trial in November 2015.