Local Couple Battles Council to Save Home Gym Business
A controversial dispute has erupted in Basin Stoke, Hampshire, where local residents Paul Willis and Emma Woodley are fighting to preserve their home gym against a council demolition order.
The couple invested tens of thousands of pounds in building an impressive gym on their driveway, which now serves as the base for Mr. Willis' personal training business. However, local authorities have ordered them to dismantle the structure within six months.
Parking Concerns at the Heart of the Dispute
The council's primary objection centers around parking issues. Officials argue that the gym occupies what was previously a designated parking space, potentially forcing more vehicles onto the already congested streets of the estate.
According to some residents, the local parking situation is already problematic, with cars parked along road edges reportedly causing accidents by obstructing drivers' views.
The authorities have denied the couple's retrospective planning permission application, expressing concerns that approving the gym might encourage other residents to make similar modifications to their properties.
Community Divided
The situation has divided the neighborhood, with many residents supporting the couple's right to maintain their gym.
Neighbor Daniel Scofield believes the council's demands are excessive, suggesting that if the gym's operation is properly managed—particularly regarding where clients park—it shouldn't significantly worsen existing parking problems.
Another resident, Matt, described the council's position as “stupid,” noting that the gym is on the couple's own property and doesn't disturb anyone.
The Couple's Defense
Paul and Emma maintain they don't contribute to street parking problems, as they utilize unallocated parking spaces nearby instead of parking on the street.
Paul explained that he initially believed they could build the gym without council approval. It was only after a complaint that they learned they needed to apply for retrospective planning permission.
Emma described the council's decision as “ludicrous,” noting that their original driveway space was difficult to use safely anyway.
Financial Implications
The demolition order poses significant financial consequences for the couple. Tearing down the gym would directly impact Mr. Willis' personal training business, resulting in a substantial loss of income.
As it stands, the couple has been given six months to remove the gym and restore the parking area to its original state, putting their business and investment at risk.
