An Airbnb owner accused of hosting parties has been unsuccessful in his bid to keep a sauna and decking at his property after neighbors complained of disruptive behavior. Chandler Harrod, the owner of the bungalow in Ormesby St Margaret, Norfolk, which locals have nicknamed 'Orgy St Margaret,' applied for retrospective permission for the decking, sauna outbuilding, and a 2.8-meter tall trellis fencing.
Great Yarmouth Borough Council had previously refused the application, following a tip-off alleging that some building work had been carried out without the necessary permission. The Planning Inspectorate has now dismissed Mr. Harrod's appeal after an inspector was denied access to the property during a visit last month. Under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, a no-show for an inspector's visit can result in an automatic dismissal.
The appeal was lodged after a series of objections from nearby residents. They raised concerns about the unauthorized building work at the Airbnb, which was marketed as a couples' getaway, and the conduct of its guests. Residents reported that the elevated decking provided a clear view into neighboring gardens, leading to instances of guests engaging in outdoor sexual activity in the hot tub. Some also claimed to have found used condoms thrown into their gardens and reported noise disturbances.
One neighbor, Phil Leach, 63, described experiencing 'many sleepless nights' due to the alleged parties. He stated that the gatherings included stag and hen dos, and instances of drug use on the decking. He emphasized that the property is located on a residential street and is unsuitable for such activities, arguing that guests seeking that kind of experience should go elsewhere.
John Huxford, a resident whose home backs onto the Airbnb's garden, reported witnessing guests having sex on the decking and engaging in other disruptive behavior in the hot tub. He also mentioned beer cans, litter, and a used condom being thrown into his garden, describing the situation as "just disgusting."
Despite the ongoing dispute and the loss of his appeal, the property remains listed on Airbnb as a 'coastal getaway with sauna and hot tub.' Mr. Harrod had previously stated he was unaware of any problems and described his experiences with neighbors as positive. He indicated a willingness to discuss any issues directly with his neighbors.