The ship has sailed for a luxury boatyard which offers mooring facilities for super boats and cruisers, after it was given three months to remove piles and pontoons constructed illegally.

The owner of Hampton Riviera Boatyard must remove a number of the piles and pontoons and a walkway he built without planning permission after his appeal to allow the construction work to remain was dismissed by the planning inspectorate.

The constructions were considered to harm the natural look and feel of surroundings currently protected as a conservation area.

Councillor Geoffrey Samuel, deputy leader of the council, said: "I hope this sends a clear message to anyone who is considering flouting planning regulations.

"It doesn’t matter whether it’s a small extension to a home, or major construction to a local business - planning permission is essential.

"This case shows the council will do everything in its power to protect the environment and ensure construction work is carried out legally."