Tree house causes stir
Complete with fireman’s pole, the den had been in the back garden of the Baker family’s home in Clear View, Kingswinford, for months when a neighbour reported it to the council. They object to the 13ft high structure – which is directly in line with a bedroom of one surrounding home.
They say it invades their privacy and blocks out light.
Diane Baker said she had not expected the tree house, built for her two young sons, would cause a problem.
“We were surprised when we found out we needed planning permission,” she said.
A children’s tree house built by their grandfather has caused a stir between neighbours in a smart Black Country street after council officers said it needed planning permission.
Complete with fireman’s pole, the den had been in the back garden of the Baker family’s home in Clear View, Kingswinford, for months when a neighbour reported it to the council. They object to the 13ft high structure – which is directly in line with a bedroom of one surrounding home.
They say it invades their privacy and blocks out light.
Diane Baker said she had not expected the tree house, built for her two young sons, would cause a problem.
“We were surprised when we found out we needed planning permission,” she said.
“I mean, it’s a tree house. My father spent quite a lot of time making it for the boys, which makes it even more special to the family.”
She added that she could not understand how the tree house could be seen as invading neighbours’ privacy.
Planning officers have recommended retrospective approval for the tree house, but say it should be pulled down within two years to preserve the aged tree.
One neighbouring resident, whose garden backs on to the Baker’s home, said: “It’s a beautifully made thing, but it’s just too high. It’s right in line with one of my bedroom windows.”
Members of Dudley Council’s Development Control Committee will debate the issue on Monday September 3.Source: