A homeowner in Worcester faces the costly demolition of a substantial garden building after the local authority refused retrospective planning permission, following complaints from neighbours who described it as an 'eyesore'.
Neighbours' Fury Over 'The Big House'
The dispute centres on a semi-detached property where the 58-year-old resident applied to replace an existing garage with a single-bedroom annexe. However, neighbours were shocked when construction began in June, resulting in what they call a standalone 'extended bungalow' or 'second house' in the back garden.
The two-storey structure is reported to be roughly four times the size of a standard garage, effectively cutting the garden in half. One neighbour stated, "I'm not sure how on Earth they thought they could get away with throwing up that eyesore." They added it was "barmy" to build what resembled a detached house without securing permission first.
Features That Raised Alarm
Concerns escalated as the building's scale and potential use became apparent. Neighbours reported that separate utility lines for water and power had been installed, suggesting independent sources. At one point, the building was listed as an Airbnb on the planning application.
Further grievances included the building's impact on privacy, as its windows overlook neighbouring gardens, and claims it was built onto a shared party wall without consultation. "They've fenced it all off into a separate property, it effectively stands alone," one complainant said. "They could effectively sell it as a separate property, too."
Council's Final Decision and Fallout
Worcester City Council has now formally rejected the application for retrospective planning consent. This leaves the homeowner with a £170,000 structure that must be torn down unless a successful appeal is launched.
The case serves as a stark warning to other UK households considering significant extensions or outbuildings. Undertaking such work without the necessary permissions carries a high risk of enforcement action, potentially leading to substantial financial loss and enforced demolition.
The ruling underscores the critical importance of engaging with the planning process, consulting with neighbours, and securing full approval before any building work begins.
