The owners of a property on what is often described as England’s “prettiest street” have been compelled to halt and reverse unauthorised works following widespread criticism from neighbours and local authorities. Metin Dener and his wife, Gubin, had sought permission to construct a large outdoor fireplace and carry out extensive landscaping at their Grade II listed cottage in Bibury, Cotswolds, but their proposals were refused amid concerns over heritage impact and visual harm.
Over several years, the couple’s construction activities at the home on Awkward Hill have sparked controversy, with local residents and conservation officers condemning the scale and nature of the alterations. Critics argue that the changes represent a “flagrant disregard for the history and beauty of the area,” claiming that what was once a modest historic cottage has been transformed into a “monstrosity” incompatible with the village’s character.
After the refusal of part retrospective permission, the owners submitted new plans to Cotswold District Council requesting the removal of the unauthorised fireplace and amendments to the landscaping. The applicants stated that they had mistakenly believed the works constituted “permitted development” but acknowledged that this was not permitted in the setting of a listed building.
Conservation officers have now indicated that these revised plans are acceptable, paving the way for imminent demolition of the fireplace. The application includes removing the unauthorised fireplace, filling in an arch-headed niche in a retaining wall, omitting previously proposed stone steps through a lawned area, and reconstructing an unstable boundary wall using traditional dry-stone techniques to match existing structures.
Officials commented that the outdoor fireplace “is an uncharacteristic feature within the cottage’s setting and the Bibury Conservation Area,” and that its removal will help preserve the significance of these designated heritage assets. The infilling of the niche was also deemed acceptable as it addresses an element considered harmful to the building’s setting.
However, officers noted that further details are required regarding proposals for safety railings on the retaining wall and the exact height and design of the dwarf wall between the parking area and garden.
Previously, planners denied permission for the earlier application, citing the statutory duty to pay special attention to preserving or enhancing the character and appearance of the area, as the works were found to diminish the significance of the Grade I listed Arlington Row and the wider conservation area. Although the harm was deemed less than substantial, it was not outweighed by public benefits.
Bibury Parish Council expressed concern that the fireplace was “huge” and out of keeping with the surroundings of a very important historic cottage, stressing that it altered historic views recognized nationally for their special character. The council also requested more regular and comprehensive monitoring of the ongoing developments at the site.
Local residents have voiced frustration over the prolonged construction period, excessive noise, disruption from vehicle movements damaging verges, and blocked access. Many lament the loss of the village’s traditional aesthetic, describing the property as having become a “monstrosity.” Several past applications have been submitted for alterations including roof works and the construction of an oak conservatory and stone summerhouse; some were later withdrawn.
Representatives for the applicants acknowledged confusion over permitted works within the garden of a listed building and have ceased all landscaping activities while seeking to resolve outstanding issues. They noted that over the past two to three years, various construction-related inconveniences, including drainage works leading to road closures, have affected the village. Despite efforts to communicate with neighbours about deliveries and material movements, maintaining constant communication has proved challenging.
The contractors have engaged with the local Highways department and agreed that necessary road and verge repairs will be undertaken at the client’s expense upon project completion.
A final decision regarding the submitted plans and enforcement of the removal works will be made by Cotswold District Council in due course.