Beware bogus ‘planning control officers’ turning up

THAMES Valley Police has received reports recently of some people posing as planning or building control officers to gain access to people’s properties under the pretence they’re looking into enforcement issues etc. When challenged, they’ve said they were from “planning” and left immediately.

Thames Valley Police Alert

Planning officers can often turn up to a site unannounced, especially planning enforcement officers. However, they will always have photo ID on them, and are always happy to be asked for it and to explain the reason for their visit. Their identity can also be verified by calling the planning office on 01491 823740 or by contacting the Customer Service Manager Duncan Grainge on 01491 823711 or email: duncan.grainge@southandvale.gov.uk

Residents are asked to be extra vigilant about this kind of activity and to ask for ID from anyone who visits unannounced from any organisation. Please report suspicious activity to the Police via the 24 hour non-emergency telephone number 101 or call 999 for crime in progress.

The Police would appreciate your help in passing this message onto family, friends, work colleagues and other residents living in the area, thank you.