BUILDERS working on a grade II listed old shop in Malmesbury have had to stop work after it was discovered that planning permission had not been applied for.

After numerous attempts to speak to workmen at the former Threshers Wine Shop failed, town and Wiltshire councillor Simon Killane spoke to colleagues at the unitary authority to find out the details behind the work – and was surprised by his discovery.

After inquiring, planning enforcement officers admitted they did not know about it as no planning application and listed building applications had been submitted.

“Wiltshire Council has a very strict, controlled regime in regards to planning. People trust and respect the system,” said Coun Killane.

“When someone comes along and starts modifying a building that is listed, concerns become raised.”

Coun Killane tried to speak to the workmen but he says he was ignored and was once told that a man would come out shortly but then retreated out of sight.

“The people of the town have a right to know what they are doing and that work complies with regulations,” he said.

“It’s brilliant that someone wants to do the work and I would give them support but you can’t start working on a listed building without the right consent.

“At the moment the work has been stopped and they are applying for permission.”