Idnan Choudhry, 31, could be ordered to knock down his five-bedroom property in Walsall, West Midlands, following a four-year planning dispute with his local council. The house, which cost £400,000 to build, is just 50cm too wide and sits too close to a neighbouring property.
Planning Permission and Retrospective Rejection
Mr Choudhry, a quantity surveyor, was granted planning permission for a replacement dwelling in 2022, but his retrospective planning application was rejected after the house was built. He claims to have followed previously approved architect's plans, but an enforcement officer informed him of the width issue.
Despite making modifications, including scaling back the size of the dormer, his retrospective application was refused for a second time. Walsall Council said he failed to address previous grounds for refusal and introduced additional objections, citing a "top heavy and incongruous" appearance and loss of privacy for neighbours.
Costs and Emotional Toll
Mr Choudhry paid £337,000 for what was previously a three-bedroom house and has spent an additional £35,000 on lawyers and new architects. He has three children and lives with his parents.
"We're being made out to be criminals but we have tried to do everything by the book," he said. "I know some people buy up land and throw things up but we went through all the proper processes, or so we thought. What has happened over the last four years has caused me and my family a great deal of anxiety - it has been a nightmare."
Dispute Origins and Ongoing Battle
The dispute began four years ago when incorrect plans were initially approved, subject to a condition that a 45-degree line of sight from neighbouring windows would not be compromised. The drawings were later found to be inaccurate, which the council called an 'oversight'.
Mr Choudhry lodged his first retrospective application last year, which attracted five objections and was rejected on grounds including 'unacceptable levels of harm' to number 6 Brookhouse Road. He has since lodged a further application, receiving 22 comments in support and five in objection, but it was refused again.
"On June 30 we had a notice of demolishment come through and they were refusing permission again," he said. "I've engaged fully with the council every step of the way and I will continue to fight this to save my home. I've contacted the ombudsman and hired lawyers and I won't give up."
Walsall Council stated that the latest application fails to address previous grounds and introduces additional issues, including poor sightlines, a significant breach of the 45-degree rule, an inaccurate site plan, and loss of privacy. The council has been contacted for a response.
