RAGING homeowners have told how their Platinum Jubilee party has been RUINED by an “eyesore” fence blocking their views.
Lorraine Twizell said the two-metre tall structure – which was put up by developers two MONTHS ago – put a dampener on celebrations.
What would have been a jolly gathering in Heddon-on-the-Wall, Northumberland has been called off after housing developer Hamilton Willis put up the fence in March.
Instead, the street’s traditional Jubilee party is being held somewhere else – with the group left hanging a string a bunting to liven up their stark new view.
Lorraine told the Sun: “The fence is still standing. It’s going to mar our Jubilee celebrations as our street party can only be held on this flat even piece of road.
“It’s the only flat part on Centurion Way. In the past, it’s where we’ve done all our games and celebrations.
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“You can put tables there and they won’t stay anywhere else.
“Still, it’ll give us something to hang the bunting from.”
Lorraine and her neighbours have dubbed the view-blocker ‘Hadrian’s Fence’ due to the area’s close proximity to the Roman Wall.
She claims housing developer Hamilton Willis erected the fence in March – just five feet in front of a viewing bench.
The developer had earlier applied for permission to put four new homes on land just south of the village but their application was rejected by the council.
The company since launched an appeal.
Lorraine added: “It’s just an awful eyesore. It’s so unpopular. We are absolutely devastated.
“And the effects on the community… We have these two benches either side that were left for the people of the village to enjoy the view.
“So it’s part of our heritage, this beautiful view of the Tyne Valley. It’s got to be seen to be believed.
“And those benches are maintained and paid for by our council tax. There’s a little paved area with flowers on – we pay for that.
“They’ve just come along and put this fence within five feet of it – there’s nothing to look at any more.
“I’m angry that they can just come and do that.
“That view is the reason we bought our houses here.”
A Northumberland County Council spokesperson earlier said: “We are aware of this issue which is at the very early stages of investigation.
“Everyone who has been in touch with the Council about this matter will be informed of the outcome of the site visit.”
Hamilton Willis have been approached for comment.
