Full Breakdown
Kent Grandfather’s Off-Grid Home Bulldozed Amid Land Dispute
By Drooid · · How we work
Destruction of the Caravan Home
On May 6, Bob Thwaites, 79, returned from a shopping trip to find his caravan, his home for 35 years on the Swanscombe Peninsula, demolished by Land Logical, which had recently acquired Swanscombe Development LLP, the land’s legal owner. The demolition destroyed all of Thwaites’s possessions, including his late son’s ashes.
Legal Background and Claim of Adverse Possession
Thwaites moved onto the creekside site in 1991 when the land had no registered owner. After more than 12 years of continuous occupation, he claims an adverse-possession right that became an “overriding interest” once the land was later registered, potentially giving his claim priority over Swanscombe Development LLP’s title.
Court Proceedings
Thwaites sought an interim injunction at Dartford County Court on September 30, asking to return with a replacement caravan while the ownership dispute proceeds. He was represented by David Forsdick KC; Howard Smith acted for Swanscombe Development LLP.
Forsdick called the demolition “unlawful” and cited a Land Logical interview in which CEO Nicholas Katz called Thwaites a “squatter,” arguing a court order was required before removal. He presented aerial photographs from 1999-2025 and a gate key as evidence of continuous residence.
Smith argued Thwaites had no contractual right, lacked planning permission and council-tax payments, and that the revocation of Broadness Cruising Club’s access ended any claim. He also questioned Thwaites’s stated dates of occupation.
Judge Catherine Brown adjourned the application, scheduling a decision for October 15 at 11 a.m.
Official Positions & Responses
- Keystone Law partner Ed John said the injunction hearing concerns the rule of law and human dignity, noting the demolition was unprecedented in his 30-year career.
- Land Logical maintains Thwaites was squatting and the demolition lawful.
- MP Jim Dickson (Labour, Dartford) pledged support, calling the demolition a violation of proper legal processes.
Criticism & Opposition
MP Dickson’s comments criticize the developers for bypassing eviction procedures. Thwaites’s legal team also condemns the demolition as a breach of procedural fairness.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It is our case he does not have any contract to allow him to remain in occupation.” — Mr Smith
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Rights Claim: Thwaites’s team argues adverse possession created an overriding interest; the defendant says there is no contractual or planning basis.
- Occupancy Frequency: Smith suggests Thwaites lived elsewhere for much of the time, while Forsdick points to continuous presence evidence and the gate key. The court has not yet ruled.
What’s Next
Judge Brown will deliver a decision on the interim injunction on October 15. The ruling will determine whether Thwaites may reinstall a caravan and retain access while the underlying ownership dispute continues.