Artist labelled as a squatter loses bid to continue late classes
Anna Davies claimed she found the hut, in Kings Walk, Shoreham Beach, in a derelict state in 2005 and later converted the property into a studio after extensive attempts to trace its owners failed.
Planning permission for use as an artist’s studio was granted in 2012 but complaints over smoke from a wood-burning stove highlighted the agreed operating hours were being breached.
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Hide AdMs Davies’ retrospective bid to open until 9pm two days a week was instead limited to 6pm by Adur District Council’s planning committee on Monday.
“Residents did not expect a business to appear in a tranquil residential area until 9pm two days a week,” said Marine councillor and Shoreham Beach Residents’ Association chairman Joss Loader.
While not an issue the committee could consider, Mrs Loader highlighted residents’ concerns over the hut’s ownership.
She noted a letter of objection from former Shoreham Angling Club member, Trevor Passmore, penned shortly before he died in January.
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Hide AdTitle deeds register the proprietors as three members of the now disbanded club – but efforts to trace them have been unsuccessful. Mrs Loader said Mr Passmore viewed Ms Davies as a ‘squatter’. His objection letter registered intent to evict her but funds were limited.
Ms Davies said had paid business rates on the property and had spent hundreds of pounds trying to trace the owners.
“I’ve spent hundreds of pounds on public notices and spent much time trying to trace the owners,” she said.
“I am more than happy to answer any questions at the appropriate meeting with the appropriate people.”
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Hide AdSpeaking after the meeting, she said that while she would not be able to hold evening classes, the new conditions would allow daytime teaching by appointment.
She welcomed a condition requiring her to install a more eco-friendly heating solution to minimise emissions.