Homeowner Faces Demolition of £170k Garden House

A homeowner in Worcester is facing the potential demolition of a £170,000 two-storey house constructed in her back garden, after retrospective planning permission was refused by the local council. Clair Birch, 58, had initially sought approval for a one-bedroom annexe, but the resulting build has been described by neighbours as an 'eyesore' and an 'overbearing' structure.

Ms Birch attributes the situation to a property firm she hired, alleging they submitted incorrect planning documents and left her in the dark. She maintains the house was built in good faith to accommodate her disabled daughter's needs. However, neighbours have raised concerns about the build encroaching on their land, causing damage, and significantly impacting their privacy.

Worcester City Council refused the application, citing the build's lack of visual cohesion with the surrounding area and its failure to demonstrate dependency on the main dwelling. The council noted the structure's overbearing nature and unacceptable impact on the amenity of nearby residents. Ms Birch is now facing the prospect of tearing down the substantial property if no resolution is found.