ENFORCEMENT officers are getting tough with businessman Jeremy Tyrrell, ordering him to carry out work at Roswell Pits or face court action. They have issued him with an enforcement notice demanding he remove hardcore, a hardstanding and service cables la

ENFORCEMENT officers are getting tough with businessman Jeremy Tyrrell, ordering him to carry out work at Roswell Pits or face court action.

They have issued him with an enforcement notice demanding he remove hardcore, a hardstanding and service cables laid in a trench on the site.

The notice comes into effect on May 19 and if he fails to comply within four months he could face a fine of up to £20,000 and a bill for the removal of the items.

Campaigners who have been fighting to protect wildlife at the site are celebrating after the latest move by East Cambridgeshire District Council.

Liz Hunter, vice-chairman of the Campaign for the Protection of Rural Ely said: "We are absolutely delighted that the council has taken this action and are using their policies to safeguard this valuable site of interest to wildlife and people."

Giles Hughes, head of planning and economic development at East Cambridgeshire District Council said: "As a planning authority we have worked really hard to resolve the concerns we have regarding some of the work which has taken place at Roswell Pits.

"We have consistently been told that a planning application to resolve these matters would be submitted but this is not the case. Given the nature of the work over recent weeks, we have been left with no option than to take enforcement action. It is important that we take action where we can to protect our countryside.

"Taking enforcement action is never an easy step as in all investigations we need evidence which we are confident will stand up in court before we can move forward.

"In this case, we believe we have a robust case which we believe will be effective in taking action on the work which has taken place so far down at the Pits."

The enforcement action has also been welcomed by Ely's Liberal Democrats who were outraged when trenches were dug and services installed without planning permission.

Sue Austen, Liberal Democrat Councillor for Ely South, said: "It is over a year now since this work began and many of the trees have been lost. Part of the site is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. I am very keen that this should be extended across the site so that the area is protected for good."

Cllr Sue Austen celebrating enforcement action at Roswell Pits.