Derbyshire Council Loses Three-Year Access Dispute Over Woman's Fenced-Off Property

Derbyshire County Council must remove a fence obstructing access to an 81-year-old woman's home after losing a three-year legal battle. The barrier was erected by the council, closing a gap that had provided access to the property since 1967.

Mrs. Mary Gregory, residing in Tibshelf, initiated legal proceedings against the council following the construction of the fence. This impediment left her and her family without direct vehicular access to their residence, necessitating a prolonged dispute.

The council's decision to block the long-standing access point generated considerable local discontent, highlighting broader issues of public authority overreach concerning private land use. Critics noted the council's expenditure on legal fees for a dispute over a minor access route, contrasting it with local service provision.

A council spokesperson confirmed the outcome, stating, "We respect the court's decision and will comply with the order to remove the fence." The resolution marks the end of a protracted and costly endeavour by the local authority to maintain the obstruction.