Fence plan approved to curb attacks
A CONTROVERSIAL fence at a home in Frosterley was given retrospective planning permission this week following advice from the Police.More than £400 worth of damage to seven trees was caused in a “disturbing vandalism attack” at the home of Mr and Mrs Barron in Kirk Rise last year, prompting the police to advise heightening the existing fence.
Four letters of objection were received, however, saying that the brushwood screen added to the existing fence is excessive, obtrusive and unsightly. Cllr Dorothy Burn who attended a visit to the site said: “The brushwood screening looks horrible.
“It looks as if it has been carelessly patched on. “There are plenty of ways to increase security without using the bushwood screen they have used.”
Cllr Des Wilson was in agreement and said: “As far as I’m concerned, this fence is excessive and overbearing.”
The majority of the Cllr’s disagreed however, and agreed to give planning permission on the already constructed fence.
Cllr Joe Buckham said: “The applicant has built the fence under the advice of both the police and the council.
“If I was him, I would presume myself in the right. As it has been recommended by the police, we have no choice but to give our approval.”
