Overview
- Residents say a long-neglected property owned by 75-year-old former RBKC councillor Nicholas Halbritter has a Japanese knotweed infestation nearly three metres high that deters buyers and depresses values.
- Neighbours describe derelict conditions including foxes living inside, persistent water leaks and mould, which they say are affecting adjoining homes and quality of life.
- Land records show Halbritter has owned the house for more than 40 years, and he was prosecuted in 2017 for failing to comply with a maintenance notice that included tackling knotweed.
- Local MP Ben Coleman publicly criticises Kensington and Chelsea Council for not doing more and urges officers to revisit enforcement options.
- The council says planning enforcement and environmental health teams have exhausted their powers, deem further action unjustified, and suggest affected residents consider civil remedies.