LOCALS have slammed a “cage-like” 6ft privacy fence erected suddenly just inches from their homes.
Those living next to the Cotton Lane Allotment in Bury St Edmunds were left fuming by the green fence after it was put up without permission.
The “prison-like” barrier, which cost £27,000 to install, is meant to keep muntjac off the nearby allotments.
But it’s divided opinion amongst locals – with allotment holders loving it, while those living next door face an eyesore.
David Steward’s property borders the new fence. He told Suffolk News the new view from his window was “prison-like”.
He added: “I challenge any planning officer, councillor or allotment holder to publicly state that they would like to have this type of industrial fencing erected in such close proximity to their own dwelling”.
His neighbour Kathy Steward added: “What is currently in this location was erected without proper permission.
“No one who has posted support for the application lives in close proximity to the site or has their living room views obscured by close industrial fencing.”
The structure was installed by Bury Town Council on behalf of Cotton Lane Allotment holders, to stop their pricey vegetables being destroyed by stray wildlife.
It was not given planning permission by West Suffolk Council planners, but the town council has now submitted a retrospective application.
Standing at 6ft high, the industrial fencing is made of 24-and-a-half metres of PVC-coated steel ‘”v-mesh” fencing.
Bury Town Council has offered to decorate the fencing with plants, acting as a screen.
Allotment holder Nicholas Law, of Guildhall Street claimed that the fence’s construction was a “necessary measures if the allotments are to survive.”
West Suffolk Council and the Cotton Lane Allotment Holders Association have been approached for comment.
