Residents of a suburban estate in Nuthall, Nottingham, have expressed their discontent regarding the construction of a new 6ft boundary wall, describing it as a "monstrosity" that detracts from the aesthetics of the area. The wall was built during extension works at a property on Mornington Crescent, where homeowner Jonathan Lewis has stated that the project followed all planning guidelines set forth by Broxtowe Borough Council.
The wall's establishment has incited a strong backlash among locals, with several residents claiming it should never have been granted planning permission. They argue that the new structure presents the neighbourhood as resembling a prison and fundamentally alters the entrance to the estate which they believe was previously attractive with its open front gardens. The homeowner, Jonathan Lewis, referred to the complaints as “nonsense," insisting that he adhered to all regulations and received approval for the wall, stating, "In my opinion it looks really nice and it's completely lawful." He also noted that similar structures are present in the vicinity.
Mr Anthony Wilson, who resides next door, has spearheaded the opposition against the wall, asserting that it has been built closer to the public footpath than initially proposed. "What has happened is an absolute travesty," said Wilson, a 58-year-old veteran. He further claimed that despite 15 objections raised against the wall, none of these residents were consulted during the planning process. He lamented that the new wall has drastically altered the presentation of the neighbourhood, stating, "With the monstrosity of the wall it looks like some sort of prison. It should be demolished."
Further echoing the concerns, resident Tony Pinkstone, aged 69, condemned the wall's impact on property values and the overall street scene, stating, "It's completely destroyed the street scene... All it's doing is devaluing the properties because it's making a harsher environment."
In response to the uproar, a spokesperson for Broxtowe Borough Council defended the planning approval, indicating that the wall’s dimensions were in accordance with the agreed plans and that the council had taken residents' comments into account during the assessment process. The spokesperson added that any legal issues related to covenants fall outside of planning considerations and noted that modifications made to the wall's positioning had been sanctioned as a non-material amendment.
Meanwhile, in Nuneaton, plans have surfaced for a new Airbnb unit as Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council received a planning application for a property located at 21 Market Place. The application seeks permission for a partially retrospective change of use from a five-bedroom flat to two one-bedroom flats and an additional one-bedroom short-term let space.
The proposal outlines a design aimed at practicality and suitability for future occupants, with intentions for the short-term lets to be advertised on platforms such as Airbnb for over 144 days a year. It is asserted that the changes would not negatively impact the surrounding area as the accommodations are within an existing residential property. The application also emphasizes adherence to local regulations regarding safety and licensing, promising to manage the new use in alignment with community standards.
The planning application for the Airbnb conversion is currently under review by planning officers at the Town Hall, and the council has made provisions for public review of the application on their website under reference 040840.
Source: Noah Wire Services