A property developer who built an "eyesore" nothing like his planning permission has been told he must tear the whole thing down.

The developer, who is currently not being named, was given planning permission to build 12 flats in Garratt Lane, Earlsfield, in 2008.

He submitted detailed drawings with his application which, when granted, allowed him to build nine one bedroom and three two bedroom flats.

What he actually "squeezed in" was eight two bedrooms and four one beds, two of which were built in the basement.

The council said this would never have been allowed because that section of Garratt Lane is vulnerable to flooding and the basement units, which have little to no natural light, have flooded twice.

As well as the developer’s failure to follow regulations with regard to the flats, the "ugly" finished appearance of the block of flats bears "no resemblance" to drawings submitted.

Planning chairwoman Cllr Sarah McDermott said: "This is a shocking case of a property developer who clearly thought he could get away with totally ignoring planning rules.

"The building really is an eyesore that does not meet any design standards. On top of that he has crammed in way too much residential space leaving tenants in cramped and sub-standard accommodation.

"Worst of all the basement flats are in a well-known flood plain and as a consequence people living there have twice been flooded out, losing valuable possessions and suffering quite avoidable pain and upset.

"It is difficult to recall a more outrageous flouting of the planning laws and for doing so I’m afraid he must remove what is there and replace it with a new building that conforms to design standards and provides the people living there with proper facilities and appropriate living space."

People commenting on the council’s website applauded the move.

Celia Blair said: "Arrogant and greedy landlord. Serves them right. Well done Wandsworth Council."

However, some were more critical.

An anonymous person said: "Well done to the Council for enforcing this.

"But this is a huge waste of raw materials that won't be able to be recycled.

"Why didn't the Council inspect the site during the building works so that the building works could be stopped before the full building was completed?"

The enforcement notice given to the developer states he must fix the situation by October 2017.