Overview
The complainant (Mrs C) was concerned that her neighbour (Mr A) had erected a wall with gateposts and a gate on land which was intended as a two metre wide service strip and was aggrieved that Fife Council (the Council) had not required the removal of the wall and gate. She claimed the wall impeded access to refuse collection vehicles and presented a danger to pedestrians.
Specific complaint and conclusion
The complaint which has been investigated is that the Council failed to take appropriate action with regard to the wall built by her neighbour on the service verge (upheld).
Redress and recommendation
The Ombudsman recommends that her report be placed before the relevant committee of the Council for them to consider whether the complainant's neighbour should be invited to regularise the position with regard to building standards and apply for planning consent.