Neighbours claim new-build is making their lives a misery
AN elderly couple say their Midland countryside dream home has been ruined by a two-storey new-build just yards away.
Louis and Elaine Cleveley were thrilled to move in to their bungalow near Lichfield 21 years ago. But they say the house being built on land at the bottom of their garden in Coppice Lane, Clifton Campville, is making their lives a misery.
The Cleveleys are angry that Lichfield District Council approved a planning application to demolish an existing bungalow and build a two-storey house on the same site.
Originally submitted in 2017, the plans were given the green light by district planners in February 2018.
Louis Cleveley, 69, claims he was given five minutes to plead the residents’ case at the meeting.
Building is now well under way and the Cleveleys and other residents are unhappy, saying that it is out of keeping with the area. Louis and his wife Elaine,
68, moved into their home in December 1998 and have been very happy there.
They said: “At the time it was everything and more we’ve ever dreamed of.”
But they say that the new house overlooks their back garden and the builders can watch their every move.
Sally Kerby, who owns the new-build and submitted the planning application, said: “We haven’t done anything wrong, we are building in accordance with the planning applications.”
Enforcement officers from the council have been out to the property to take measurements, but say the building taking shape is in accordance with the original plans.
A spokesman from Lichfield District Council said: “The building height and the distance to the neighbouring boundary are in line with the plans.
“The application was thoroughly assessed, taking account of its contemporary design and how this met relevant planning policies.”