Jail sentences imposed by High Court judge

Two people have been given prison sentences for ignoring planning enforcement actions and a High Court order.

Nadine Amy Strevett and Nima Cham, both of Milton Gate Stables in Wilmington, were sentenced in their absence by His Honour Judge Shetty in the High Court of Justice King’s Bench Division on Friday 18 October.

The case was brought to court by Wealden District Council after an access point onto the A27 - which gave no visibility in either direction and was a major highway safety issue - was created from the site in Wilmington without planning permission.

Ms Strevett was sentenced to five months imprisonment suspended for 12 months on the condition that she complies with the outstanding requirements of an injunction order made by His Honour Judge Ambrose on 9 March 2023. She also has to pay a fine of £2,000.

Mr Cham was sentenced to five months imprisonment. An arrest warrant has been issued by the court. Both defendants will have to pay Wealden District Council’s court costs of £16,841.50.

Councillor Ian Tysh, Alliance for Wealden (Green Party) and lead councillor for Planning and Environment, said, “This case is an important reminder of the ultimate consequences of breaches of planning control. It is crucial that, when faced with allegations of breaches, you take professional advice and engage with the council.  Repeatedly ignoring the council’s enforcement actions, and then ignoring a court order, may result in a jail sentence.”