Cottage owner ordered to remove high fence
BBCA homeowner whose historic property borders a Tesco store in Derby has been ordered to remove a 2m (6.5ft) fence put up without planning permission.
The family living at Fennel Cottage in Mickleover’s Limes Avenue moved in two years ago and set about tidying the Grade II-listed property’s overgrown garden and installing a fence.
A retrospective application was made stating the fencing tackled “issues with privacy and security” but this was rejected and an appeal subsequently refused.
Derby City Council said the fencing was out of keeping with the area and the appearance of the listed building.
In the appeal, the resident said queuing Tesco delivery lorries had a clear view into their garden, while prior to the fencing, there were problems with thefts and trespassing on their land.
People living nearby expressed their sympathy with the owners of the cottage, which dates to the 1850s.
Neighbour Tina Hacker told the BBC: “I think it looks lovely.
“I would feel sorry for them if they had to take it down, they’ve spent all that money to make it look good.”
Another neighbour Dave Baughan said: “I haven’t got a problem with it, I would feel sorry for them.
“You get everybody parking here and going to Tesco. I don’t blame them for putting it up.”
A city council spokesman said: “The landowner’s appeal against our refusal for retrospective planning permission was dismissed.
"The Inspector noted that solid fencing along part of the front boundary is harmful to the character and appearance of the area and the setting and significance of Fennel Cottage, a Grade II-listed building.
“Following this decision, we’ve been in touch with the applicant and advised them to discuss the matter with planning officers with a view to agreeing a boundary design that respects the character and setting of this listed building, in line with the conclusions outlined in the Inspector’s decision.
"We have the powers to take formal enforcement action if a voluntary solution isn't reached.”
The BBC has approached Tesco for comment.
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