The terraced house in Ramsgate, Kent, once known for its extraordinary jungle-like garden, is undergoing a significant transformation following the death of its former owner, Christopher Tull. The property, which had become engulfed in thick vines and shrubs that completely obscured the house and driveway, is now being restored by new owner Paul Taylor, a property developer and landlord.
Christopher Tull, a reclusive pensioner described as a "tidy hoarder," lived at the property until his passing in 2022. During his occupancy, the garden grew wildly out of control, with greenery overhanging so extensively that it engulfed two vans parked on the driveway and covered the front door and windows entirely. Aerial photographs from 2022 showed the property as an explosion of green foliage nestled between two well-maintained terraced houses. The overgrowth was so intense that local residents reported vegetation encroaching onto their land, and one neighbour even had to rebuild their garden wall due to shrubbery intrusion. In addition, the front garden had become so obstructive that the local postman refused to deliver mail to the property, marking it as 'undeliverable.'
Following Mr Tull’s death, the house was auctioned and purchased by Mr Taylor, who has since committed to an extensive refurbishment. Speaking to the Daily Mail, Mr Taylor detailed the considerable scope of the restoration. "Christopher was a lovely man. He was what I would call a tidy hoarder," he said. "There were a lot of belongings and things which had been hoarded over the years but it was tidy." The redeveloping landlord revealed that the property contained six cars and even a boat hidden among the dense foliage in the garden.
The restoration has involved clearing vast quantities of overgrown vegetation, uncovering several vehicles concealed within the front and back gardens. "There were several skips over the time we have been doing it," Mr Taylor explained. "We have a small operation and take our time. It's been a big task. The biggest part was emptying the whole property out." So far, costs have surpassed £20,000, with additional funds required to complete the work. Mr Taylor also noted substantial repairs inside the house, including rewiring, installing full central heating, fixing roof leaks, and addressing water damage in several rooms.
Neighbours have welcomed the renovation, expressing relief that the property is finally receiving attention. John Christison, a resident since 1985, remarked, "I am glad finally something is being done about it. It's been a real eye-sore." Others recalled concerns about fire safety during Mr Tull’s occupancy, with the fire service reportedly visiting to assess the risk posed by the dense vegetation. Another local who lived opposite the house commented, "It was shocking... I worried about my house price for a while. Who would want to look out and see that? It was the messiest garden in Britain. I think what has been done is very good."
Despite the unusual state of his garden, Mr Tull was remembered fondly by neighbours. One described him as "amazing" and a "lovely man" who was sociable and kept to himself. "He would come round for dinner," she said.
The house, now cleared of its jungle-like overgrowth, stands in stark contrast to its previous condition. Photos from before and after the clean-up show the property’s front door and windows, previously hidden beneath vines, now fully visible, with the once impenetrable garden spaces significantly tidied. Mr Taylor plans to rent out the house once the refurbishment is complete, returning the once engulfed terraced home in Ramsgate to the rental market after years of neglect.
Source: Noah Wire Services