Man pleads guilty to illegally operating two mobile homes in Caddington

Central Bedfordshire Council successfully prosecutes another mobile home park owner for illegally operating two mobile home sites on Watling Street, Caddington, without a licence.

The owner, Martin Berry of Greenvale Nurseries, was taken before Luton Magistrates Court on Tuesday, March 17, and pleaded guilty to the charges.

He was was ordered to pay a total of £732 in fines, costs and a victim surcharge.

The prosecution, supported by LGSS Law, comes after investigations revealed that the two mobile home sites owned by Berry was operating unlawfully since 2012.

Despite prolonged contact with the owner to ensure a licence was in place this was ignored for several years leading to charges being filed.

Before attending court, Mr Berry did eventually apply for the correct legal licence, which was granted in January 2020.

Councillor Carole Hegley, Executive Member for Adults, Social Care, Housing Operations (HRA) and Customer Services, said: “I am pleased at this result and that the site owner has been brought to justice.

"This is the second positive case for us in the last few weeks against site owners who think they are above the law.

“Our residents who live on mobile home sites in Central Bedfordshire should be confident that their site does not present a hazard to their health and safety.

“We want the message to be clear that we will pursue all site owners who fail to comply with the licensing requirements.”

The licensing of mobile home sites ensures the health and safety of all residents including the correct separation of units, fire safety regulations are followed, and maintenance is of a high and safe standard.

In February, Central Bedfordshire Council successfully prosecuted two owners of a mobile park home site in Caddington, they were found guilty and fined nearly £14,000.

To report any concerns, issues or poor conditions of a mobile park home site in Central Bedfordshire email: [email protected] or call 0300 300 8767.