Castle Besieged by Planning Permission
There are nice homes, and there are grand designs. Some domestic projects are so elaborate – so outlandish – that they need to be seen to be believed. Here is our favourite from a series of weird and wonderful homes we’ve researched on the internet. To encounter such a place on a removal would be a pleasure! Sadly, it will be seen no more…
The Tale Of Salford Castle
The tale of Salford Castle is an epic tragedy worthy of medieval folklore. Robert Fidler, a farmer from Surrey, built a mock Tudor castle on his land for the family. When we say castle, we do mean castle; the property has turrets, towers, chandeliers and sturdy wooden staircases. Okay, it might not have a moat, but you can’t please anyone.
Did it last? Sadly, Salford Castle has been besieged. The local council deemed it a violation of planning permission, ordering Mr. Fidler to demolish the property or else face jail time. Mr. Fidler’s solution was to surround his castle in hay bales until a legal cooling period allowed him to remove them. He did so for seven years.
Surrey Council Prevails
So, was the war won? Sadly, after nearly a decade of legal disputes, the council prevailed and Salford Castle’s demolition was officially sanctioned. As of March this year, its deconstruction has begun and Mr. Fidler will need to find alternate accommodation for his family. With a June deadline, it’s likely they’ve already moved.
The Get Surrey website features an interactive map of Mr. Fidler’s legal battles with the council. Check it out here for more information.
Do you need to flee your castle? Lords, ladies, kings and queen are welcome to enquire about our removal services. We can’t promise to arrive in horse and carriage, but our vans pack a mean punch, and the room is spacious!
