A couple from Derbyshire have been handed a fine after failing to comply with a planning enforcement notice for a listed building in Ilfracombe. 

William Griffin, 77, and Amanda Griffin, 69, of Whatstandwell, Matlock, Derbyshire, pleaded guilty to the offence of failing to comply with an enforcement notice at a hearing of Barnstaple Magistrates' Court at Exeter Combined Court Centre on Monday, 17 March.

As owners of the Grade II listed 6 Montpelier Terrace, Ilfracombe, Mr and Mrs Griffin were issued the notice in 2015, which required them to restore the balcony of the property within 12 months. The balcony's removal was considered to have affected the character of a building with historic architectural interest.

Officers made repeated attempts to support the restoration of the building by offering works in default and home improvement loans, as well as allowing multiple extensions of time in order to comply with the enforcement notice. While the owners chose to carry out and manage the works themselves they failed to complete the works within a reasonable amount of time.

Mr and Mrs Griffin were ordered to pay a total of £4,050. They were each fined £1,000 for the offence, as well as £1,025 each for costs.

The enforcement notice remains in effect and the owners are required to complete the works within three months to avoid further prosecution.

Chief Executive of North Devon Council, Ken Miles, said: "Listed buildings help preserve and protect the historic architecture and character of our built environment for our residents and visitors alike, so it is important that any works to them have the appropriate listed building consent. This prosecution shows we are committed to investigating unconsented works and taking formal action when it's needed."

More information on planning compliance and how to report a concern can be found on the council's website.