Cabinet Minister Kemi Badenoch is facing a formal council investigation into potential planning breaches at her £1.15 million Essex residence, The Independent can reveal.
The Business Secretary and prominent Tory figure purchased the property in the Epping Forest constituency in December 2022. Council officials have now confirmed an active probe into whether unauthorised development work has been carried out on the home.
Epping Forest District Council stated: "We are currently investigating a potential breach of planning control at this property." The investigation centres on a substantial conservatory-style extension at the rear of the property, which may have been constructed without obtaining the necessary planning consents.
This development raises significant questions about whether the extension was properly declared. Property records indicate the extension does not appear on official title plans from the Land Registry, suggesting it may be a more recent addition.
The controversy emerges at a delicate time for Badenoch, who is considered a frontrunner in any future Conservative leadership contest. The ministerial code explicitly requires ministers to "scrupulously avoid" any conflicts of interest between their public duties and private affairs.
Planning experts note that rear extensions often fall under "permitted development" rights, but these have specific limitations regarding size, height, and proximity to property boundaries. Any structure exceeding these parameters requires full planning permission from the local authority.
Neighbours have expressed surprise at the development, with one local resident noting the extension's "considerable size" compared to the original property footprint.
The Home Office, where Badenoch previously served, declined to comment on the matter, referring inquiries to the minister's personal representatives. Attempts to reach Badenoch's office for comment were not immediately returned.
This investigation could prove politically damaging for the rising Conservative star, particularly given the government's emphasis on planning regulation and property development compliance.
