Furious residents in a Poole, Dorset development have criticized a decision by BCP Council to permit a single mother to continue operating a Thai massage parlour from a log cabin in her garden. Preeyapjon Wansanit opened the therapy room in the Carters Quay development, which neighbors claim violates the estate's strict rules against home businesses.
The log cabin, described as nearly 9 feet wide and over 6 feet tall, occupies half of the rented property's back garden. Neighbors were alerted to the business when Wansanit distributed leaflets advertising her services. This led to complaints to BCP Council, who required Wansanit to apply for retrospective planning permission.
Her application faced 18 objections from residents who cited security concerns related to clients arriving and departing at various times. One neighbor reportedly sent someone 'undercover' to verify the business's legitimacy, and another suggested, without evidence, that the establishment was being used for improper purposes. Critics also pointed to the development's covenants, which reportedly forbid home businesses and even the parking of branded vehicles on the estate.
Despite the objections, planning officer Camila Bastidas determined that the business did not constitute a 'material change of use' of the site and would not significantly impact neighboring properties. Bastidas noted that the business was limited in scale, with Wansanit as the sole employee and the spa operating part-time. To address concerns, the council has imposed conditions, restricting operating hours to 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. Additionally, only one customer will be permitted at a time, with a 30-minute interval between appointments.
Residents expressed anger and disappointment with the decision. One anonymous neighbor stated they were "appalled that the council has said it is okay for this business to continue and I'm appalled that it's been done retrospectively." Another resident, Cesar Camacho, argued that running any business, even a dog grooming shed, is forbidden on the estate and that Wansanit's actions were not honest. Gill Sheldrake raised concerns about fire hazards from oils and candles, as well as security issues due to customers walking past rear gardens day and night.
Wansanit, however, maintains that her business, Lotus Thai Massage Therapy, offers a "calm and peaceful space" and explicitly states on her website that she does not provide "sexual or inappropriate services." The business holds a five-star rating on Google from 70 reviews, with one customer describing it as a "cozy little hut" for unwinding.
In response to the council's decision, Wansanit expressed relief, stating, "I'm pleased the application has been approved and I appreciate the council's consideration." She added that she does not anticipate problems with the 30-minute gap between clients and assured residents they should have no concerns. The planning officer noted that granting planning permission does not override the existing covenants for Carters Quay.