Airbnb owner loses planning row after neighbours accuse guests of ‘debauchery’ in hot tub

An Airbnb owner in Norfolk has lost his appeal to retain a sauna, decking and tall trellis fencing at his property following accusations of "debauchery" by neighbours.

Chandler Harrod had sought retrospective planning approval for the structures at his bungalow in Ormesby St Margaret, close to Great Yarmouth.

The borough council rejected his application last year after an anonymous tip-off revealed the building work had been carried out without permission.

Local residents had raised objections about the raised platform giving visitors a clear sightline into neighbouring gardens.

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They also reported being subjected to sexual activity outdoors, excessive noise and rubbish being discarded, including a condom that landed in one garden.

Mr Harrod challenged the council's ruling, but the Planning Inspectorate threw out his case after no one was present to grant entry during an inspection visit last month.

He had received written notification that a failure to allow access would lead to automatic dismissal of his appeal under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.

The appeal came after numerous complaints from villagers who opposed the unauthorised construction and expressed alarm at guest behaviour.

Residents claimed the elevated wooden platform allowed them to witness guests being intimate in the hot tub, while noise from the property caused disturbance.

Rosemary Vincent, 90, a nearby resident, previously said: "There is all sorts of debauchery there, which all the residents are aware of."

John Huxford, 80, added: "I have seen all sorts going on there I have seen people having sex on the decking and up to all sorts of mischief in the hot tub.

"People also stand on the table, shouting."

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He continued: "As a result of the partying, all sorts of stuff has been thrown into my garden beer cans, litter and even a used condom.

"It is just disgusting."

Mr Harrod, who purchased the bungalow during the pandemic, may now face enforcement action requiring him to tear out the decking and remove both the sauna and fencing.

Despite the ruling, the property remains advertised on Airbnb as a "coastal getaway with sauna and hot tub", carrying a 4.81 rating and priced at £221 for a two-night stay.

Mr Harrod previously said: "I'm not aware of any problems with the Airbnb, it's been very successful and it's always fully booked.

"I've had nothing but positive conversations and experiences with all my neighbours on the road.

"It's a lovely area and everybody has been very kind and helpful."

He added: "Of course, if any of the neighbours need to have a conversation with me, they are more than welcome to."

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