BBC News, Nottingham
A rogue builder has been sentenced to three years in prison after leaving clients with incomplete and poorly executed construction work. Barrie Parkin, 73, of no fixed address, misled clients with inflated quotes and unfulfilled promises, leading to significant distress.
Victims reported that Parkin often requested early payments but then failed to complete projects. One victim, who commissioned a conservatory, was left with a shell structure and exposed electrical wires after ten months of waiting. In another case, a surveyor deemed an extension Parkin charged over £20,000 for as “one of the worst” he had seen, recommending it be demolished.
Between March 2014 and February 2019, Parkin undertook various building projects, including extensions, conservatories, and an orangery, but delivered shoddy work that often lacked necessary planning permissions. One client learned of the absence of approval only after contacting the council to voice concerns.
Andrea and George Reeves, another pair of victims, expressed their distress, stating they used their life savings to hire Parkin for a kitchen and bathroom extension, only to be told the work required complete demolition. This ordeal coincided with George’s cancer diagnosis, compounding their challenges during a difficult time.
Trading Standards officers, who investigated Parkin’s activities, highlighted numerous complaints, including instances where he left homes exposed to the elements and attempted to charge clients additional fees for incomplete work.
Mark Walker, interim service director for the county council, praised the victims for coming forward and supporting the investigation. He emphasized the importance of the Trading Standards team in bringing Parkin to justice and protecting future clients from similar scams.