Plans for a two-metre-high security fence around a 30-acre estate in Buckinghamshire have been approved despite backlash from local villagers.
Alexander Mosionzhik, former chairman of the Russian investment firm Nafta Moskva, applied to Buckinghamshire Council for permission to construct a two-metre-high metal fence around his newly acquired countryside estate, Wymers on Burroughs Grove Hill in Marlow Bottom at the beginning of November.
Marlow Bottom villagers have vocally criticised the plans, with one person comparing it to "a Berlin Wall in our village" and another condemning its risk of "significant damage" to wildlife in the area.
On January 2, however, the Local Planning Authority chose to approve Mr Mosionzhik's application, permitting construction of the fence so long as it is "carried out strictly in accordance" with detailed design plans.
A planning officer at Buckinghamshire Council acknowledged the "high number of representations and local objections made against the design and sitting of the proposed (fence)" but was satisfied that Mr Mosionzhik had sufficiently altered the structure's appearance in response to the criticism.
The alterations included switching the initial metal palisade fencing with a chain link model and incorporating a painted green finish.
Addressing concerns that the fence would narrow bordering bridle paths, the officer said they were satisfied that the proposed structure "would be positioned within the boundary and inner side of the hedge, rather than encroaching towards the public rights of way and bridleway".
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A spokesperson for Mr Mosionzhik expressed "regret" at the controversy that has surrounded the planning application, reiterating its purpose of providing security to the estate following "break-in, arson and trespassing" incidents.
They said: "Whilst it is clear that this has upset some, we have spoken with a number of local people who support our plans to restore and properly maintain the property and land.
"We are pleased that Buckinghamshire Council has now approved the application. This land has no public access or rights of way, and the permitted fence will not obstruct any publicly accessible areas or rights of way.
"The fence style, approved in collaboration with the council, will be similar to others found locally and will be entirely appropriate for a rural setting.
"It is worth also noting that planning enforcement officers have conducted multiple visits, prompted by reports from individuals in the area, and have found no violations or irregularities at the property."
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