Residents of a suburban estate in Nuthall, Nottinghamshire, are embroiled in a dispute over a newly constructed boundary wall that has sparked significant controversy among neighbours. The wall, built as part of an extension project at Jonathan Lewis's home on Mornington Crescent earlier this year, has been described by some locals as a "monstrosity." Critics argue that it resembles a "prison" and should never have received planning permission from Broxtowe Borough Council.
The wall, standing at six feet tall, has faced backlash from various residents, who have voiced their concerns regarding its impact on the aesthetics of the neighbourhood. "Fifteen people objected to the wall but not a single one was contacted," commented Anthony Wilson, a 58-year-old neighbour and the main advocate against the wall. He expressed his dissatisfaction with the approval process, stating, “What has happened is an absolute travesty.”
Residents have echoed Wilson's sentiments, with fellow neighbour Tony Pinkstone, 69, adding that the wall “has completely destroyed the street scene,” and lamenting the loss of the estate’s charm enhanced by open front gardens. Many in the community feel that the wall has negatively affected property values by creating a harsher environment.
In response to the complaints, Broxtowe Borough Council has defended its decision to approve the wall, indicating that it was built in accordance with the planning application that had taken into account all relevant comments. A spokesperson from the council stated, “The wall in question has planning permission, and the heights of both the wall and the pillars are in accordance with the approved plans.” They also explained that any legal matters or covenants concerning the wall are not within the realm of planning considerations.
Jonathan Lewis, the homeowner in question, dismissed the criticism as overly dramatic, labelling the situation “a nonsense.” He invited his neighbours to discuss their concerns directly with him, affirming, “We have followed the rules to the absolute letter,” and pointing out that other properties in the area feature similar walls. He noted, “In my opinion it looks really nice and it’s completely lawful.”
The situation highlights the tensions that can arise within communities over development and planning decisions, particularly when residents feel that their concerns have been overlooked. The wall, now a focal point of contention, continues to divide opinions within the estate as neighbours contemplate its place in their suburban landscape.
Source: Noah Wire Services