Walsall Council has ordered the demolition of an illegally built house in Walstead Road, Fullbrook, after neighbours described living next to the property as a 'nightmare'. The partially-built structure, which has been in its current state since March 2019, has caused structural damage and safety concerns for nearby residents.
The problems began in February 2018 when the homeowner was granted planning permission for extensions and a loft conversion. However, the council later discovered that the original dwelling had been demolished and replaced with a larger, unauthorised structure. Despite a rejected planning application and an enforcement notice issued in November 2018 ordering demolition, the homeowner failed to comply.
Jo Perry, 51, who lives next door with her family, said the building work almost knocked through her living room wall and caused flooding in her bedroom due to rainwater runoff. 'It has been a nightmare living next to the property,' she said. 'What the homeowner has done next door has been a huge expense to us.'
The council has now taken enforcement action, using its powers to have contractors demolish the building. A spokesperson said the owner failed to make the structure watertight, causing damp issues at neighbouring properties. The site remains fenced off due to safety concerns, with children reportedly climbing on scaffolding.
Mrs Perry added that the homeowner has not been seen for six months, and the property has become a hazard. 'There is a huge danger there because the building is not safe,' she said. The council confirmed that the demolition will proceed, clearing all waste from the site.
