A row has erupted between neighbours over an “ugly” two-metre fence built around a property on the street.
Michael and Emma Jackson, who live in Barnoldswick, Lancashire, erected the fence as it “protects them from neighbours’ CCTV”.
They also said the fence allows them to get the most from the outside space.
The couple received a barrage of complaints from disgruntled neighbours who disliked the wooden fence as it was out of character with the neighbourhood.
The couple applied for retrospective planning approval for the fence
Google Street View
The pair applied for retrospective planning approval, which was approved earlier this week by Pendle Borough Council.
The Jacksons had applied last year for approval; however, it was rejected.
They later appealed, arguing that neighbouring houses in the area have built a variety of boundaries around them. They were successful and the fence, which reaches up to two metres in places, was allowed to stay.
Emma Jackson said that Pendle Council would “have to take a similar stance” against many other homeowners if it decided to follow through on removing their fence.
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Planning officers recommended the fence be removed, stating that it was an eye-sore and damaged the area’s character.
One opponent said the submission “made a mockery” of the planning system and wasted council resources.
However, the decision was for councillors to make, who ultimately conceded to the Jacksons.
Speaking at the planning permission meeting, Michael Jackson said: “We would like to address the points raised by planning officers in the report.
“They referred to sustainable development, design and the character of Cavendish Street.
The couple live in Barnoldswick, Lancashire
Wikimedia Commons
“There is no definitive street scene. There is a mix of frontages. The Pendle Local Plan does not appear to be consistently applied across Barnoldswick, West Craven or Pendle.
“There is a mix of properties and fronts in the surrounding streets of Barnoldswick such as Colne Road, Denton Street, Park Avenue and Skipton Road, just to name a few.”
He continued: “Additionally, there are some other reasons for having the fence. There are CCTV cameras on a neighbouring property which capture the entire front of our house.
“These have not been changed despite requests. The fence gives our family some privacy when arriving or leaving, or sitting outside.
“The benefits of being outside are important and were highlighted during the Covid lockdowns. We can sit outside in the summer. This space is important and we do not have much space at the back. We also take great care and look after our property. It is not out-of-character with the area.”