Building owner rapped for destroying historic chimney

The chimney off of High Street before it was reduced

Arun District Council has taken enforcement action after works to repair a damaged chimney above the Sims Williams estate agents, in High Street, left it an ‘appalling stub’ of its former glory.

The owners of the Grade II listed building did not gain permission from the council to alter the chimney – which they demolished almost entirely.

This week the council issued an order for the chimney to be repaired as soon as possible.

The news has been welcomed by Arundel town councillor and local historian, Mark Phillips.

Mr Phillips, a third generation ‘Mullet’ who was born and bred in Arundel, hoped the enforcement action would send a stern message to other property owners in the town thinking of undertaking any alterations to their buildings without consent.

“We can’t allow that to happen,” he said. “We’re proud of this town. It’s a historic town and a conservation area.

“Arundel has the largest number of listed buildings in a small area in the whole of England.

“We simply can’t afford to lose out on this heritage and history in the town because once it is gone it can’t be replaced.

“Yes, it could be a chimney or a set of windows that we lose, but if we don’t stand up for Arundel then little by little these changes will chip away at the history and heritage of the town that is so vital.”

Arun’s director of planning and economic regeneration, Karl Roberts, said the council took breaches of the planning process ‘very seriously’.

“Listed buildings should be preserved so their historic character can be enjoyed by all,” said Mr Roberts. “I very much hope the owner takes the required action to resolve the situation otherwise the council will have to consider taking further action.”

Mr Phillips added this was not the first time this sort of breach had happened.

Recently owners of another property, at the corner of High Street and Tarrant Street, had knocked down its chimney without consent.

He added on both occasions, the occupiers of the buildings were not to blame, as they were merely renting the site.

Mr Phillips is now urging Arundel residents to ‘remain vigilant’ and report any potential breaches either to the town council or planning officers at Arun.