A quiet afternoon in King Charles III's visionary Poundbury development turned violent when a 69-year-old resident launched a shocking attack on his 83-year-old neighbour, a court has heard. The assault allegedly stemmed from ongoing complaints about exhaust fumes from a Ford Mustang penetrating the elderly victim's garden.
The Royal Village Rift
Poundbury, the Duchy of Cornwall development personally championed by the monarch, is designed as a model community showcasing traditional architecture and harmonious living. However, this idealistic vision was shattered when Stephen William Sully, 69, confronted his octogenarian neighbour in a fit of rage over the exhaust complaint.
Prosecutor Ramin Pakrooh told Weymouth Magistrates' Court: "The victim noticed the defendant's car engine running and fumes coming into his garden. When he approached Mr Sully about this, he was suddenly punched in the face."
A Community in Shock
The attack left the 83-year-old victim with significant facial injuries, including heavy bruising and swelling around his eye. Emergency services were called to the scene in the typically tranquil development, where residents pride themselves on community spirit and neighbourly values.
"This was a sustained assault," Mr Pakrooh continued. "The victim was struck multiple times while trying to retreat into his own home, with the violence only ending when he managed to close his front door."
Defence Claims Provocation
Stephen Hopper, defending, acknowledged his client's actions but suggested there was more to the story than initially apparent. While not excusing the violence, Mr Hopper indicated that ongoing tensions between the neighbours had created a volatile situation.
Sully, who describes himself as a man of previous good character, pleaded guilty to assault by beating. The case has been adjourned for pre-sentence reports, leaving both men awaiting the final outcome while continuing to live as neighbours in the royal development.
A Stain on Poundbury's Perfect Image?
The incident raises questions about whether the reality of community living in Poundbury matches its carefully curated image. Conceived by King Charles as an antidote to soulless modern developments, the village emphasises traditional values and neighbourly cooperation.
Yet this case demonstrates that even in the King's model community, ordinary human conflicts can escalate into extraordinary violence. The court will deliver its sentence next month, determining what consequences Sully will face for damaging both his neighbour and Poundbury's pristine reputation.
