A Somerset grandfather, Ron Knight, finds himself in a lengthy legal battle due to a dispute surrounding a boundary wall on his farmland in the village of Milborne Port. The six-year conflict has resulted in mounting fines that he may struggle to pay, potentially leading to the loss of his home.
The issue began in December 2017 when Mr. Knight removed a portion of the boundary wall to access and maintain his land. This action invoked the displeasure of the South Somerset District Council’s planning enforcement team, subsequently leading to a prolonged and complex legal struggle. Despite numerous court appearances, the ongoing fines may force Mr. Knight to sell his home in Devon.
The situation has been further complicated by the involvement of Somerset Council, which replaced the district council. They are adamant about pursuing the matter, citing the public interest. The parcel of land in question, located on Brook Street, became landlocked after the farm’s new owner extended the property, denying access to Mr. Knight’s land.
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In an attempt to resolve the situation, Mr. Knight had submitted a retrospective planning application, seeking permission for the changes made to the wall. However, the council declined to review the application, asserting that Mr. Knight could not apply for planning permission while under enforcement action.
Mr. Knight, an 88-year-old retired individual who cares for his disabled wife, is facing the daunting prospect of being forced to sell his home due to the accumulated fines. The gravity of the situation was underscored when he was recently informed in court that failure to comply with the court’s orders could result in prison time.
Mr. Knight’s plight is worsened by the difficulty in obtaining legal representation, with the cost of legal aid or professional advice proving to be a significant barrier. His family highlights the inconsistency in the council’s approach, citing previous instances where neighbors faced no repercussions for similar actions.
With a looming court date in January, Mr. Knight grapples with the impending pressure of settling the outstanding fines. Meanwhile, Somerset Council continues to justify their stance, asserting that Mr. Knight’s actions have caused unwarranted harm to a designated heritage asset.