Last season’s The Block winners Darren and Deanne Jolly have learned the hard way why you don’t mess with heritage listed properties, after being threatened with a massive fine for demolishing one without a permit.
In October, it was reported that the couple had applied for retrospective permission to knock down the facade of their recently-purchased early-20th century property in East Kew.
The couple only had a partial demolition permit, but in a letter after the fact, Darren claimed he had “no choice” but to demolish the facade after realising what poor condition it was in.
Though permission was eventually granted, the local council is coming down hard on the couple, insisting that they reconstruct the facade exactly as it was.
A representative said:
“The approval requires the reconstruction to be to the same detail as the original, reusing the existing roof tiles, bricks to the porch and chimney, front door and windows.”
Council lawyers have been instructed to take the couple to court for a breach of the Planning and Environment Act, for which they face a fine of up to $180,000.
After learning of this, the couple fired back that the property was “just a bloody mess”, with Darren adding that he made the decision to demolish on his own, as the existing structure was not safe.
Neighbours have complained that a new construction would damage the heritage value of the street, but Darren, who claims he always intended to rebuild the facade, promises he’s not building “a massive monstrosity” and his new build will add value to the street.
via Fairfax
