A FARMER has been fined £4,000 after refusing to demolish a building he had put up without planning permission.

But Michael Fryer, of Wood Farm, Peopleton, near Pershore, says he is taking legal advice and could appeal.

The 55-year-old appeared before Worcester magistrates on Monday, April 14 charged with failing to adhere to an enforcement notice.

"I'm taking legal advice as I was given planning permission," said Fryer.

"The fine and action were totally out of proportion. I'm very upset about it."

Fryer was also ordered to pay £650 costs.

Wychavon District Council had served an enforcement notice to Fryer to demolish the steel framed building at the farm, but it was ignored.

He had received planning permission to build it for agricultural use but it was being used for commercial use - storage of furniture by a removals company.

Speaking after the hearing, Gill Collin, development control manager at Wychavon District Council, said: "We are delighted with the outcome of this case, which highlights the need for residents wanting to build or even extend properties to seek planning approval and to adhere to the guidelines".

"Our team of planners are on hand to give advice whether permission is needed or not for developments or alterations and will help with making applications where needed."