Residents Feel Like Prisoners After Spiked Fence Appears Outside Windows
Furious residents of a new-build development near Canterbury, Kent, say they feel like prisoners after a spiked metal fence was erected directly outside their windows. The barrier, which went up on February 2 on land adjacent to the Woodlands development, has sparked outrage among homeowners and renters who are now considering taking drastic action.
Council Powerless Under New Government Rules
A Canterbury City Council spokesperson explained that planning permission was not required for the fence due to a new government order. This order allows small-scale developments to proceed without council consent under certain conditions.
The spokesperson stated: 'The government has made an order that allows people to carry out certain works without having to obtain planning permission from the council. This allows much small-scale development to be carried out without the council's say so.'
Ward councillor Harry McKenzie confirmed the council's position, noting: 'I've been informed by the planning team that since the fence is not higher than two metres, it does not require planning permission and no enforcement can take place.'
Residents Consider Taking Matters Into Their Own Hands
Council tenant Miles McCreadie expressed the frustration felt by many residents: 'Me and some of the residents have been thinking we're going to get some bolt cutters and take the section of it that's in front of our windows down. Because it's just not fair - somebody has put this big metal fence up so close to the building without thinking of the people who live here.'
McCreadie added: 'It's a stressful thing to see when I open my curtains, it feels like we're trapped in a prison.'
Mother-of-Two Considers Legal Action
Mother-of-two Ramune Bernataviciene, who saved for 17 years to buy her ground-floor flat at the development, says her views have been completely spoiled by the railings.
'It's horrible, I won't live like this,' the 46-year-old said. 'I feel angry that the council says they don't have any power to do anything. But I won't just leave it. I have a short list of solicitors I'm considering and so I'll do what I can, or if I can't I will sell the place and move somewhere else.'
Mystery Over Land Ownership
Councillor McKenzie revealed that it remains unclear who owns the land upon which the fence has been installed, but he has vowed to continue investigations into the matter.
Regarding residents' strong feelings about the unwelcome barrier, McKenzie added: 'I understand why they feel that way, and I'm determined to help them as much as I can.'
Government Rules Allow Fence Without Permission
The council spokesperson elaborated on the government order that has tied their hands: 'Many people will be familiar with their rights to extend their homes or put up garden fences along the boundary of their house without having to come to the council for permission. The rights extend beyond homeowners and allow anyone to put up a fence as a means of enclosure as long as the fence is no higher than two metres.'
No planning permission was sought before the fence appeared outside residents' windows, but under current regulations, none was required despite the significant impact on those living in the affected properties.
