'Squatter' couple win right to use land as garden

Kent and Donna Barron took partial control of the plot near their home in Blackbird Close, Bradwell, via the adverse possession route used by squatters more than three years ago.

Following a complaint and questions about ownership they were told to apply for a retrospective change of use.

Donna and Kent Barron are now the legal owners of a plot of land in Bradwell they had previously occupied as squatters. (Image: Google maps)

The decision ends a stressful saga for the couple during which they were branded "thieves" on social media.

After the planning meeting on Wednesday night the couple said they were relieved and happy to draw a line under the saga.

"I will be able to sleep now," Mrs Barron said.

During the debate at Great Yarmouth Borough Council Tony Wright said the issue was straightforward.

"I do not see any problem with this application," he said.

"It all looks good and legal and above board."

Donna and Kent Barron have turned a patch of wasteland into a private garden after exhaustive attempts to find out who owned it. (Image: Liz Coates)

Bernard Williamson said it was "a positive move" the land had been taken into ownership and would be maintained.

The saga began when Mr and Mrs Barron fenced off the land which had been vacant for around 20 years after an electricity pylon was removed.

Having tried to track down the owner and buy it they took adverse possession, as advised by the Land Registry.

However, three years later they were reported to planners for not applying for a change of use amid concerns about loss of open space and setting a precedent.

The remaining land not fenced off as a private garden in Blackbird Close where the parish council says it wants to put a bus shelter. (Image: Liz Coates)

Ahead of a meeting officers said in their report to development control committee members that ownership was not a planning issue while noting the couple had done all they could to buy it.

Since the bid had been submitted they were able to track down the original builder and seal a deal.

The ward councillors had voiced objections but opted not to speak against the bid at the meeting.

Permission was granted on condition that no structures are erected on the plot - thought to include a gazebo currently in place.

Although the couple now own the whole plot, the change of use only applies to the fenced off area.

Mr Barron told the meeting he would be happy to discuss plans for a bus shelter on the remaining portion facing the street.