A FIVE-YEAR battle to remove an illegal ‘shanty’ extension to a building in Mistley has ended.

Tendring Council has been granted an injunction against Peter Thompson Bates over the demolition of the extension at 3, Lane Cottage.

The case was heard in the absence of Mr Thompson Bates at Norwich County Court last Friday and legal costs of £21,324.50 were awarded in favour of the council.

Although the extensions have been taken down the hard-standings and footings have not been removed from the site.

Carlo Guglielmi, Tendring Council’s planning boss said: “The judge’s decision should now bring this matter to a satisfactory conclusion and I am delighted that the council has been awarded its costs for pursuing this through the courts.”