By Fatma Younis
A homeowner in Bournemouth, Dorset, has won a 14-month battle after a property developer dismantled an illegal brick wall that blocked her sea view and reduced her property value by an estimated £50,000.
Wall erected without planning permission
The 16ft by 6ft structure was built in September 2025 next to a luxury flat development in front of Liz Bates's coastal home in the Southbourne area. The wall provided privacy for a rooftop terrace attached to one of the flats but lacked planning permission.
Planning inspector condemns structure
Three months ago, a planning inspector ruled the wall had a "harmful overbearing impact" on Bates's home, stating the terrace scale "far exceeded what could be reasonably described as modest."
Council rejects replacement screen
Instead of demolishing the wall, developer Eddie Fitzsimmons submitted a new application to replace it with an opaque glass screen intended to prevent "mutual overlooking." BCP Council's planning committee unanimously rejected the proposal, with councillors criticising the developer for prolonging the dispute.
Wall finally removed
Builders have now taken down the wall, leaving temporary scaffolding in its place. Bates, 43, a property inspector, said she remains cautious about celebrating in case the developer submits another application to reinstall a barrier.
Residents' broader concerns
Bates is among about 100 residents who say their lives have been "ruined" by the development of four cliff-top apartment blocks containing 27 flats. They argue the large balconies and walls cause noise, smells, and loss of privacy.
Development history
The blocks are being built on a former council car park sold in 2017. After the council denied two planning applications, Vivir Estates appealed and a planning inspector sided with the developer despite 1,500 local objections.
