A colossal garden structure dubbed a 'mega-shed' has ignited a furious planning battle in the tranquil Kent village of St Mary's Platt, with residents claiming the 18-foot-high building is destroying their countryside views and privacy.
The 'Monstrosity' Dividing a Community
Neighbours are up in arms over what they describe as a 'massive monstrosity' that looms over their properties. The timber-framed building, constructed without full planning permission, measures approximately 18 feet in height and dominates the rural landscape.
Local resident Emma Anderson, whose property directly overlooks the controversial structure, expressed her frustration: "It's completely ruined our view. We moved here for the beautiful countryside, and now we're staring at this enormous shed. It feels like we're being overlooked by a commercial warehouse rather than enjoying our garden."
Planning Permission Controversy
The property owners utilised permitted development rights for the construction, but the scale of the building has raised serious questions about whether it complies with regulations. Under current planning rules, outbuildings must be single-storey with maximum eaves height of 2.5 metres and overall height of 4 metres for dual-pitched roofs.
Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council has confirmed they're investigating whether the structure exceeds these limits. A council spokesperson stated: "We're aware of concerns regarding this development and are currently assessing whether it complies with permitted development criteria."
Neighbourhood Impact and Concerns
Local residents have highlighted multiple concerns about the oversized structure:
- Loss of privacy: The elevated position allows direct overlooking into neighbouring gardens
- Visual impact: The sheer scale dominates the rural skyline
- Property values: Homeowners fear the structure could negatively affect local house prices
- Planning precedent: Concerns that similar developments could follow if this stands
Another neighbour, who wished to remain anonymous, told us: "This isn't just about one building - it's about protecting the character of our village. If this is allowed to stand, what's to stop others from building similar monstrosities?"
What Happens Next?
The council now faces the difficult task of balancing property owners' rights with community concerns. If the structure is found to breach planning regulations, the owners could face enforcement action requiring them to reduce its size or even demolish it completely.
This case highlights the ongoing tension between individual property rights and community preservation in rural areas, serving as a cautionary tale for homeowners considering significant garden developments.
