REDBOURN: A couple who failed to maintain their Grade II listed building have been fined �1,530.

Susan and Michael Gentil of 72 High Street failed to comply with a notice issued to them under the Town and Country Planning Act which ordered them to remedy the property that used to be a shop.

The council brought criminal proceedings against the couple who initially pleaded not guilty to failing to comply with the notice but they then changed their plea to guilty at the trial held at Watford Magistrates Court last month.

Cllr Chris Brazier, portfolio holder for planning and conservation, said: “The council, as the local planning authority, will take action where necessary to ensure that listed buildings are properly maintained as they contribute to the character of the district and help make it an attractive place to live.”

Mr and Mrs Gentil have agreed to complete guttering works by March 31 and any additional work to the property by the end of June 2011.