THE COUNCIL has reassured residents they are taking action against an authorised development being built in Thatcham.

West Berkshire Council said investigations continue over the works taking place at Lawrence's Lane in Thatcham that started over the weekend without a 'properly considered planning application'.

A planning application was submitted late on Friday, August 13 and works started immediately over the weekend.

One resident who lives near to the site said there was 'lots of traffic and diggers going in and out'.

READ MORE: Investigation launched into 'unauthorised work' taking place on site

Since then, an official site visit has taken place to determine who is in charge of the works and who is on site to determined if residential use has started.

There has also been an increase in Thames Valley Police presence in the area whilst the council carry out investigation works.

The Council will be taking planning enforcement action with the intention of preventing any further unauthorised development occurring.

Cllr Richard Somner, executive member for planning, transport and countryside at West Berkshire Council, said: “I want to reassure residents who have raised concerns about the site at Lawrences Lane that we have been and are continuing the investigation of this matter as a priority and we will take appropriate enforcement action to address breaches of planning control identified at the site.

ALSO READ: The top 10 places to eat in Reading according to TripAdvisor

"West Berkshire Council is a policy driven authority and the application of our policies have clearly been disregarded on this occasion.

“Alongside the planning element, we also need to ensure that as a Council we are fulfilling our responsibility in all respects and this includes housing and social welfare of those who are on the site.

“I can appreciate it has been an unsettling time for those who are close by to Lawrences Lane. We are working with all partner organisations to ensure our investigations gather all relevant evidence so that we can determine what development has gone on without the benefit of the necessary permissions and work together to halt further unauthorised activity.”