An 85-year-old disabled pensioner in Rochford, Essex, is facing the removal of a £2,200 driveway he installed with council approval, leaving him "close to a breakdown."
Council reverses stance on grass verge
David Siggins, who relies on two crutches due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, had the 3m by 5m driveway built to ease access to his home. He was initially told by Rochford Council that the grass verge did not belong to them, giving him the go-ahead to proceed. However, earlier this month, the council changed its position, stating that the verge is theirs and must be restored to grass.
Mr Siggins, a former tiler, said he followed the correct processes and has the approval in writing. "I spoke to a very nice planning officer at Rochford Council who advised me to speak to Essex Highways. They told me it wasn't anything to do with them," he said. "I went back to Rochford Council, and I was told they definitely didn't own it, so I should go ahead. I have it in writing, it was confirmed we could do it."
History of disputes
This is not the first time Mr Siggins has clashed with the council over his property. Around two decades ago, he was granted permission by Essex Highways for a dropped kerb, but three months later, Rochford Council demanded its reinstatement and paid him for the inconvenience.
In 2024, he contacted Essex County Council about installing the driveway and was directed to Rochford Council, which advised him the land was not under its control. A subsequent planning application was refused, and an appeal dismissed, though Mr Siggins claims he was unaware of either decision.
Community support and legal action
Mr Siggins, who has lived at the property for 42 years with his partner and stepson, said the row is "getting me down." He noted that the close has 13 houses and 31 vehicles, and neighbors are relieved the driveway provides more parking space. "I've not had any complaints," he said. "They're all really relieved I've got [the driveway] as I can get my cars off the road as there's more space. I've got a solicitor involved."
Rochford Council said the dispute hinges on land ownership and its status as public open space. A spokesperson said: "The resident removed a grass verge owned by Rochford District Council to install a block-paved driveway. The grass verge forms part of a larger title that is subject to restrictions due to its designation as public open space." The council also noted it has received "a number of complaints" and that the planning application was refused and appeal dismissed.
Mr Siggins has until the end of August to decide how to proceed, with the council requiring the driveway's removal or further action.
