A couple from Carleton who flouted planning laws must demolish the conservatory they built without consent.

David and Jean Ward were fined £2,000 each by Skipton magistrates after admitting breaching an enforcement notice between August 19 and August 20, this year.

They have now submitted an application for planning permission to construct a new front extension and porch at their home, The Bungalow, The Coach House, Carla Back Lane.

Craven District Council’s legal officer, Lisa Shepherd, told magistrates that in May 2012 the council became aware that the couple had constructed a conservatory without planning permission.

The couple subsequently submitted a retrospective application but it was refused because the scale, design and “forward projection” failed to respect the character of the original building and the surrounding area.

Despite being given details on how to appeal against the refusal, the couple did not appeal.

The bench heard an enforcement notice was served on them in January 2013 requiring the demolition of the conservatory and the rebuilding of the porch and there was no appeal against the order.

On February 1 there was an application for planning permission seeking the retention and alteration to the conservatory which was refused.

The enforcement notice took effect from February 2013 and the couple were given six months in which to comply.

John Mewies told magistrates that Mr Ward believed the conservatory was “permitted development”.

He added they felt let down by their architect and the conservatory was of “immense importance” to them.

In addition to the fine, they were ordered to pay £150 costs and a £120 victims surcharge.

Following the hearing, Miss Shepherd said the enforcement notice was not affected by the court case and the authority still required the work to be completed.