Manchester City defender Kyle Walker has won a planning battle with his neighbours over a four-metre high ivy wall at his £3.5 million mansion in Prestbury, Cheshire. The wall, which was installed without permission, was intended to prevent passers-by from looking into his garden and to stop footballs from flying out.
Walker moved into the property ten months ago but faced opposition from neighbours who were angered by the screen. However, Cheshire East Council has now approved the retrospective planning application, ruling that the development is acceptable and does not harm the amenity of neighbouring properties or the area.
In planning documents, Walker's agents argued that the screen was necessary for privacy and security, noting that pedestrians had been seen taking photos and looking into the football pitch while children were playing. The council's case officer, Natalie Wise-Ford, stated that although the screen is temporary in appearance, it is not considered harmful.
The six-bedroom mansion, which backs onto a former property of ex-Manchester United star Wayne Rooney, features an outdoor hot tub, limestone stairs, a two-storey master suite, a giant fish tank, an indoor swimming pool with a waterfall, a five-a-side football pitch, a games room, and a gym. Walker shared the home with his childhood sweetheart Annie Kilner and their three children.
It is understood that Walker has since moved out of the property and into a £20 million mansion in nearby Chelford, Cheshire.
