Grrrr.....

Take a quick peek at the notice outside this new piece of Millbrook's architectural heritage. "Showhome Open". Also note the gateway on the right of the photo opening onto land over which the owner has no right of way (so what's the gate doing there?)

This house was built against the wishes of the Parish Council, and against the wishes of the majority of residents who have ever expressed an opinion to me. It has been built on what could have been very pleasant garden space, blocking the view of the houses immediately behind, one of which didn't even own the garden!

I know that all legal requirements must have been met or planning permission would never have been granted by Caradon, so I guess this property has the right to exist, no matter how barmy Caradon's decision might appear.

It should probably be pointed out, however, that the site owners attempted to sway councillors in their favour by stating that they needed to build a large house so that their daughter could use it to house her foster family. Aww, isn't that sweet. What a surprise then that before the house was even completed, it was up for sale at some ludicrous asking price. It would be churlish to suggest that it was only ever envisaged as a massive profit making exercise, so naturally no such suggestion is made.

It's good to see, also, that the architect has ensured that the building is nicely in keeping with all of its surroundings and doesn't stick out like a sore thumb at all, nor indeed does it look remotely like a public library or second doctor's surgery. Instead it obviously looks like a lovely cosy home in the centre of an attractive village.