While I was studying for my law degree in 2000 or 2001, I was shocked to wake up one day and find that my neighbour was building a large extension covering most of his back garden.
I received no prior warning about this, and it was evident that once completed, the view from my house would be overshadowed by this massive extension. Most of his back garden would be swallowed up by this structure.
In desperation, I phoned a friend who advised me to contact my local councillor. I went to see my councillor at his surgery, and he told me that he would find out if a planning application had been submitted to regularise this unexpected development.
The councillor said that if an application had been submitted, it would be discussed at a meeting of the local council’s planning committee. He said that I might have to be prepared to attend this meeting to explain my concerns about this development. He pointed out that my neighbour was also very likely to attend, which might feel a little intimidating.
However, for reasons unknown, within a few weeks, the (unfinished) structure was dismantled, removed, and never rebuilt.
Looking back, this may have turned out to be my first experience of objecting to a planning application. But with what I know now, it’s also possible there was no application in the first place. Instead, I think that the local planning enforcement officer may have warned my neighbour that he needed to remove the structure.
I think of what happened to me, all those years ago, every time a client asks for advice about developments in their area that they are unhappy with. Having experienced something similar myself gives me a better understanding of the distress they are experiencing.
How can Fortune Green Legal Practice help?
I am sharing this story to explain how I chose to specialise in town and country planning law. It’s an interesting area of law, and can affect people profoundly. I believe that the events of many years ago enable me to relate to the way clients are feeling when something unsettling is happening next door.
As town and country planning solicitors, Fortune Green Legal Practice advises clients on all aspects of town and country planning law. Get in touch for more information.
Photo by Kelly :
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