Council Orders Demolition of Dorset Couple's Garden Fence Amid Planning Dispute

Paul and Lisa Toomer, residents of a £1.15 million property in Poole, Dorset, are facing a council order to dismantle their 6.5-foot garden fence, which local officials have deemed "ugly" and "out of character" for the affluent neighborhood. The couple erected the wooden barrier five years after purchasing their home, motivated by a rise in attempted burglaries and a desire for privacy following the construction of a new house that overlooks their garden. Initially believing they were compliant with permitted development rules, the Toomers later learned from BCP Council that fences bordering a highway are restricted to one meter (3.2 feet) in height.

The Independent

After applying for retrospective planning permission, which received no public objections, the Toomers' application was ultimately rejected. A BCP Council planning officer stated that the fence is "visually dominant" and does not reflect the character of the area, where dense tree cover typically serves as a boundary. The couple has since received enforcement notices, which they have appealed. If upheld, they will be required to either remove the fence entirely or reduce its height to one meter, a change they argue would compromise their privacy and security.

The Independent

The Toomers have reportedly spent nearly £3,000 contesting the council's decisions, describing the situation as a "witch hunt." Mrs. Toomer expressed frustration over the council's demands for detailed architectural drawings for their application, stating, "It's just a normal garden fence." Mr. Toomer added that many neighboring properties have fences exceeding one meter in height, questioning the council's consistency in enforcement. He emphasized their need for security, citing the attempted burglaries in the area.

The Independent

Critics of the council's decision have pointed out the apparent inconsistency in enforcement, noting that similar fences exist in the vicinity. The Toomers argue that their fence enhances the property, contrasting it with the previous "ugly, gnarly bushes" that occupied the space. They have also highlighted the emotional distress caused by the ongoing dispute, with Mr. Toomer stating, "All I want is privacy and security."

The Independent

As the Toomers await the outcome of their appeals against the enforcement notices, they remain in a state of uncertainty regarding the future of their garden fence. The couple's situation underscores the complexities of local planning regulations and the challenges residents face when navigating them. A date for the appeal decision has yet to be set, leaving the Toomers in limbo as they seek to protect their home and family.

The Independent