Bristol City Council has finally seen sense and pulled down a 'ridiculous' fence that stood just inches from a house's main downstairs window. The 'hideous' barrier, which appeared to offer little in terms of view beyond the tops of people's heads as they walked past, was mocked by neighbours and social media users.
Health and safety concerns
Town hall bosses in Bristol said the panels were put up 'for health and safety reasons' because of a 'significant drop' between the driveway and the side of the property. The fence has now been replaced with black metal railings.
Worker's perspective
One of the workers sent to put it up said: 'Obviously the fence did look hideous and blocked 90 per cent of the sunlight going in. I think because of the views it had online, it was just decided that it needed to come down and something else put back in its place. All I know is that it was asked to be taken down.'
Social media backlash
Thousands of social media users mocked the fence after it was put up last month. One wrote: 'Oh my goodness that is beyond stupid!' Another said: 'This is ridiculous, surely the person who put that up must have questioned it? They must have some common sense.'
Neighbour reactions
A neighbour said: 'I can't work it out and I'm a builder. It blocks the windows out. I think everyone is confused.' Another said they thought the fence was installed because of the 'drop', adding it was 'health and safety gone a bit mad'. They said: 'I think it looked ridiculous. Whoever decided to do that, why? I just thought it was a bit silly and obviously common sense should come in at some point.'
Council statement
A spokesperson for Bristol City Council said: 'We can confirm the property is owned by Bristol City Council. The fence was initially installed due to the significant drop between the drive and the side of the house – a barrier was therefore required for health and safety reasons. The fence was replaced with the black railings to reduce the visual impact on residents.'
