NUDIST BIDS TO BLOCK HOUSES PROJECT Man gardens with no clothes on

A man has objected to a proposed residential development in Perthshire because he says he won’t be able to wander around outside naked when it is built.

The bizarre objection also claimed the man’s cockerel could be in danger from new pets moving into the area.

In a note to Perth and Kinross Council, the resident says a proposal put forward to build dozens of new homes near his own on the eastern edge of Abernethy will prevent him gardening either “naked or in a frock”.

Aberuthven-based housebuilders Hadden Construction have applied to

build 42 new homes in a field on the village’s Newburgh Road. But the bid has been met with 12 objections - including from nearby potato processors Branston who say it interferes with their expansion plans.

However, there is no doubt the most unusual objection came from the aforementioned resident who also claims his cockerel will keep new neighbours wakened with its crowing and fears it may even be in danger from the development.

He wrote: “I wish to object to the proposed development which will bring about a loss of privacy for me. I often wander around naked in the garden. It is my space for meditation and enhances my well-being.

“I do not cope well with people and moved here because I needed to be well away from others.

“I use the garden for my need of quiet and space for meditation. I play music in the garden which does not affect anyone else, [but] if this goes ahead that will no longer be the case.”

He went on to say: “There is also Benson the cockerel. He does what he is meant to. I do not want people complaining that they have a nice new house and are woken by our cockerel.

“If we have neighbours with cats I fear for the ... safety of our wild bird.”

Speaking to the PA on condition of anonymity earlier this week, the man said: “Periodically, I will pootle around either dressed in something loose and flowing, channelling Fanny Cradock or some Edwardian lady, or with no clothes on at all. It isn’t a big deal.

“[I moved here] because it is quiet and relaxing and for the most part it is – hence my ability to wander around in very little or no clothing.”

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Branston has commented on the same application saying: “Branston have operated from the Abernethy site for a number of years and ... have acquired land to ensure that the business can grow sustainably.

“The housing proposals, as submitted, do not give them the confidence that they can realise their aspirations at this site.”

PKC planning officials were yesterday still assessing Hadden Construction’s application.