Telford Homeowner Faces Removal Order for Unapproved BBQ

Residents in Telford are facing a challenge as local authorities have ordered the removal or modification of an open brick barbecue constructed without planning permission. Homeowner Andrian Dobzeu had applied for retrospective planning permission for two storage units, the brick barbecue, and a wooden gazebo at his property located on Elmwood Road in the Arleston area.

The Telford & Wrekin Council raised objections to the application, citing concerns about the loss of a parking space and the perceived oversized nature of the barbecue. Planning officials have explicitly stated that the barbecue “needs to be removed” or significantly reduced in size. Additionally, they have pointed out issues such as “misaligned corrugated sheeting” and a “wonky chimney,” with discrepancies between the submitted plans and what was actually built.

After receiving advice from council planners, planning agent Serghei Perdivar decided to withdraw the retrospective application. This decision followed growing opposition from neighbours, who have been vocal about their concerns since the application was lodged in October. One neighbour emphasized that removing the storage unit from the parking space would enable better use for multiple vehicles, alleviating pressure on communal parking areas.

Concerns were echoed by another resident who noted that instead of utilizing their own designated parking space, they have been forced to park in communal areas, which they feel is unfair to those with limited parking options.

Highways officers involved in the assessment indicated that Dobzeu failed to provide any evidence suggesting that the loss of the parking space would not negatively affect traffic conditions. According to planning documents, the construction work was completed in March 2023. A planning officer’s site visit on December 16, 2023, concluded that the application was unacceptable primarily due to the loss of the parking space.

The council expressed additional worries regarding the potential negative impact of the oversized barbecue on neighbouring properties. To explore possible resolutions, the planning officer recommended that Dobzeu pursue a pre-application enquiry, allowing council officials the opportunity to assess the remainder of the project.

As this situation unfolds, the Telford community remains engaged in discussions about the implications of unapproved constructions and their effects on local living conditions.