Approval for the demolition of the residence belonging to Edward Putman, a convicted lottery fraudster, may be granted at a planning meeting later this week.
The planning committee of Three Rivers District Council will convene on Thursday to deliberate a proposal for the demolition of all structures on the one-acre South Bend property located on Station Road, Kings Langley.
The property was owned by Edward Putman, a lottery victor, who was incarcerated for nine years for defrauding Camelot of a £2.5 million jackpot using a counterfeit ticket in 2019.
Edward Putman was incarcerated for the rape of a youngster in the 1990s.
The facility may now transform into a 2,000-square-metre workshop over two storeys, designated for AR18, a company specialising in the design and creation of retail environments, furniture, displays, and various projects.
Approximately 40 employees are presently engaged by AR18, positions that would be transferred to Kings Langley if the plans are approved.
Councillors have been advised to approve planning approval, contingent upon the absence of objections from both the Head of Regulatory Services and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner.
The proposals emerged following the site’s auction under the Proceeds of Crime Act in October 2023.
The application received a vote of confidence from Abbots Langley Parish Council, who described the plans as “highly welcomed” after being consulted.
A report presented to councillors ahead of Thursday’s meeting suggests that the construction phase of the development would result in “economic benefits for the local area”, noting a potential £2m windfall for construction companies, suppliers and tradespeople.
Officers say that “substantial weight” should be given to the need for industrial floorspace within the district, while also acknowledging the loss of a residential unit that would occur if councillors approve the plans.
The fate of the plans now lies with the committee after three members opted to call in the application over concerns relating to the loss of a residential unit and the introduction of a new business on Green Belt land.
The same meeting will see councillors decide on plans for a new branch of McDonald’s to open in Rickmansworth.
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