Pensioner calls for removal of new house on Fisher’s Road in Totton

Barbara Harber has hit out at New Forest District Council for approving plans for the construction of a three-bedroom house on land next to her house.

The 74-year-old has lived in Fisher’s Road in Totton for more than 50 years with her husband John, who now lives in a care home.

Despite saying she objected to the plans, the development was given the go-ahead.

She is now concerned the value of her house will plummet due to the proximity of the new-build house to her property - which was not in the original plans.

'There was no stopping them'

Barbara Harber outside her house (left) and the new house in Fisher's Lane, Totton

Barbara claims the footprint of the original plans has been extended meaning the new build is even closer to her house than it was supposed to be.

She said: “I am hoping the house gets taken down.

"It has taken thousands off the value of my house.

“I do want to move eventually when my husband dies, but we have lived here for so long, so why should I give in to them?

“They started digging the land at the start of this year and then it all stopped until I received a letter from the construction company.

“When they started work, there was no stopping them. It’s only taken them eight weeks to build it.”

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'I have been ignored'

Barbara said the building has affected her day-to-day life too. 

She said: “It’s absolutely horrendous.

“I have a disabled bay outside my house. One day, I took my car out to do some shopping and when I came back there was a lorry parked in the bay loading materials into the building site.

Barbara Harber's house (left) and the new home being built in Fisher's Lane, Totton

“This has happened about four times now.

“I am very surprised the council has approved this. I have been ignored because I live on my own. It would be different if John were still here.”

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'Neighbours consulted'

According to New Forest District Council, planning permission for a family home at this location was granted “several years ago”.

A spokesperson said: “The most recent application sought to make some minor changes to external appearance of the home and a revised internal layout.

Barbara Harber's house (left) and the new home being built in Fisher's Lane, Totton

“It was not considered that these changes would have any additional impact upon neighbours or the amenity of the area and was recommended for approval.

“The proposal was supported by the town council. Neighbours were consulted, but no comments were received.”

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