A London farmer built a castle and concealed it with hay bales in order to avoid building officials. He managed to live there for four years before the neighbors found out. Now, it may be torn down.
However, Robert Fidler wants to apply a planning law to his situation that says permission can be declared without a permit if nobody has objected in four years. However, authorities are not falling for it.
A spokesperson said,
“It does not count because the property was hidden behind hay bales. No one knew it was there.”
The castle, located south of London in Redhill, is in danger of being destroyed. The structure includes a conservatory, wooden bridge, patio, and racecourse. It is built in a mock Tudor style and has turrets and a cannon as well.
Fidler’s wife Linda said their children grew up seeing hay bales out of the windows. They even went so far as to keep their son home from school the day they were supposed to paint pictures of their homes.
Concerned neighbors are responsible for calling the authorities. Shortly thereafter, the Fidlers took down the hay. Now, a hearing on whether or not the castle can stay is scheduled for February. This couple hopes the fairytale will have a happy ending.
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