A homeowner in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, has sparked a contentious planning dispute after erecting a six-foot fence without prior permission, leading to a retrospective application and claims that the objection is "driven by jealousy." Marcus Brown, 35, installed the solid timber structure around his property, only to face a formal complaint from a neighbour who described it as a "dark and prominent" feature that disrupts the street's visual harmony.
Retrospective Application Submitted
Marcus Brown has been compelled to submit a retrospective planning application to Wiltshire Council following a complaint about the unauthorised fence. In a statement on the planning portal, he expressed surprise at the requirement, stating he was unaware that fences adjacent to a highway are generally limited to one metre without permission. The application aims to legitimise the development, but the matter has escalated into a heated row among residents.
Neighbour's Objection
James Sutherland, the objector, has called on the council to reject the application, arguing that the fence is harmful to the established character of Willow Grove. He noted that surrounding properties feature open-plan or low boundary treatments, creating a consistent residential environment. The 1.8m fence, he claims, is visually prominent and out of keeping, disrupting the openness and uniformity of the streetscape and conflicting with local planning policies.
Homeowner's Defence
Marcus Brown insists the objection is "baffling" and exaggerated, suggesting it stems from jealousy. He explained that the fence was erected to provide privacy for his daughter and improve the area, which he described as previously overgrown and unsightly. "We haven't cut down any trees, we'd say we've actually improved it," he said, adding that the fence enhances motorists' sightlines and creates a clearer pathway for pedestrians.
Community Divided
The dispute has split the neighbourhood, with some residents rallying behind Marcus. Brian Hobday, 71, and his wife Adrienne, 70, praised the fence, saying it "enhances the area" and frees the pavement from overgrown bushes. Neighbour Steve, 62, echoed this sentiment, noting the need for privacy for the family's children. However, the objection highlights a clash over aesthetic values and planning regulations.
Planning Implications
The retrospective application, submitted on March 5, seeks to "regularise" the fencing, which sits behind a boundary wall on the property. The applicants maintain it does not encroach onto the highway and provides a definite boundary. A decision now rests with Wiltshire Council, which will weigh the arguments from both sides at a later date.
Emotional Toll
Marcus Brown revealed the personal impact of the dispute, stating he and his wife invested their life savings into the home for their daughter. "I just want this to go away," he said, expressing frustration over being "punished for trying to improve" the area. If the application is rejected, he may have to reduce the fence height, compromising his family's privacy.
