Couple's Garden Dream Turns Into Planning Nightmare
A Scottish couple is locked in a bitter dispute with their local council after being ordered to tear down a garden building that cost them £20,000. Catherine Curran, 50, and her partner Martin Keyes installed the structure in their garden nearly four years ago, but now face enforcement action from Inverclyde Council.
The Council's Decision and The Couple's Defiance
Last year, council planners refused a retrospective planning application for the 2-metre-high outbuilding. Despite this, the couple has defiantly stated they will never comply with the demolition order. "They are not tearing it down," Catherine Curran declared. "My partner has spoken to two other councillors, and there are other options. They will not take my summer house down."
The situation escalated when the couple's appeal was formally dismissed. Councillor Stephen McCabe, who attended a site visit, commented, "I was pleased that we did have the site visit because I think it did actually give us a perspective that we wouldn't have had if we didn't have the site visit." However, after reviewing the officer's report, he moved to uphold the original decision to refuse permission.
Broader Implications for Homeowners
This case highlights the risks homeowners take when installing substantial garden structures without first securing the necessary planning permission. The couple revealed that moving the building as a compromise would be a major undertaking, requiring a crane and significant garden re-landscaping, as the structure is fully insulated.
Ms. Curran expressed her frustration with the council's handling of the matter, stating, "I've had no objections. Everyone up here loves it." She added, "Why should we give the council the satisfaction?" The outcome of this standoff could set a precedent for similar disputes across the UK, where homeowners have invested significant sums in garden buildings without official approval.
