Two business owners have been ordered to pay a combined total of £190,000 in fines and costs for operating an illegal car repair and audio fitting garage in Manchester.
Ahmed Chohan and Muhammed Anzir, directors of Chohan Properties and Car Sound Studio and Security Ltd, respectively, were found guilty of breaching planning regulations at a property on Stockport Road. The property was being used as a workshop and storage area without the necessary planning permission.
The council issued an enforcement notice in November 2019, ordering the cessation of unauthorised use and the removal of unauthorised building works. However, the owners repeatedly ignored the notice, prompting legal action.
Following a successful prosecution, the court imposed the following penalties:
- Ahmed Chohan: £20,000 fine and a £30,000 confiscation order
- Muhammed Anzir: £6,000 fine and a £127,876.44 confiscation order
- Both individuals and companies: £2,100 in costs and a £4,000 victim surcharge
The court’s decision highlights the serious consequences of ignoring planning regulations when it comes to garage ownership and operation. The council’s actions in this case serve as a warning to other businesses that operate outside the law.
Source: Property Wire
