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Planning approval denied for proposed garden fence addition by homeowner

Historic cottage's exterior fence deemed excessively tall, leading to revoked retrospective planning approval by the council

Planning approval denied for proposed new garden fence by homeowner
Planning approval denied for proposed new garden fence by homeowner

Planning approval denied for proposed garden fence addition by homeowner

In a recent turn of events, Derby City Council has refused planning permission for the new fence at Fennel Cottage on Limes Avenue, citing it as "excessively tall and bulky." The owners, Matthew and Rebecca Hubbard, had installed the large, horizontal, wooden structure to gain privacy from a nearby Tesco supermarket.

The new fence, over two metres tall, replaced a picket fence that was around 3ft high. However, the council considered the new fence to be the "most harsh and incongruous feature" on the street, and deemed it to be "overly dominant in the street scene."

The council dismissed the appeal but suggested a reduced height of 2m for the fence. They also recommended using a more open trellis design to soften the appearance of the fence. The council's concern is that the fence has a harmful visual effect on Limes Avenue, and it is deemed to be "harmful to the character and appearance of the conservation area."

The cottage is a Grade II listed building, requiring listed building consent for any changes. Despite the refusal of planning permission, the council has not ordered the fence to be removed. Instead, they have instructed the Hubbards to reduce the height and alter the design of the fence.

The separation fence had been installed in November 2022 without obtaining planning permission. The owners had to seek retrospective planning permission for the fence installation. The council's decision to refuse planning permission for the fence at Fennel Cottage has sparked controversy, with some residents supporting the Hubbards' need for privacy and security, while others agree with the council's decision to maintain the aesthetic appeal of Limes Avenue.

Planning permission for fences is required when they exceed a certain height. In front of properties, especially those with roads, there are lower height restrictions. The council's decision serves as a reminder to property owners to always obtain the necessary permissions before making any significant changes to their properties.

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