A towering timber fence in Rogiet, Monmouthshire, has sparked controversy, with one councillor calling it an “abomination.” The fence, which lacks planning permission, stands on a plot earmarked for a new two-bedroom house. During a recent council meeting, the plan received tentative approval, but not without a heated exchange.
Conservative councillor Jan Butler didn’t mince her words, expressing dismay over the unauthorised fence. “It’s pretty appalling. I think the neighbours must be quite put out by that,” she remarked.
Planning officer Phil Thomas confirmed that the fence doesn’t have the necessary permissions and must be reduced in height before any building work commences. He emphasised that any structure over one metre requires formal approval. However, he assured that a condition is in place to address this issue.
The application includes plans for two new off-street parking spaces to ease potential traffic woes, which have been a concern for local residents. While some locals expressed worry about potential traffic, the council’s highways department didn’t object, provided a traffic management plan is implemented.
Interestingly, the dimensions for the new home still need to be finalised, but initial guidelines suggest it will harmonise with neighbouring properties. As discussions continue, one point of curiosity remains: whether the new address will carry the Woodland View or Grenville Terrace name. This decision will fall to the council’s street naming team.
With a vote of 10 in favour, the application now moves forward, but not without leaving a lingering debate over its impact on the neighbourhood’s landscape. What are your thoughts on such additions to quiet neighbourhoods? Let us know in the comments!