A homeowner is causing a stink after building a summer house and toilet in his garden without permission – which neighbours say creates an “unbearable stench”.
Gary Levesconte had the loo built in the outdoor building so he and his guests wouldn't have to traipse indoors whenever they needed to relieve themselves.
But he had to also install a submerged cesspool in his garden to take all the waste from it.
Neighbours claim that when it is emptied an “unbearable stench” wafts through Carbery Avenue in Southbourne.
Mr Levesconte did not get planning permission for the summer house, toilet and cesspool but has since submitted a retrospective application in a bid to keep it.
The move has left residents flushed with anger, with more than a dozen sending official objections to BCP Council.
Greg Howe said: “I am concerned that if this toilet and cesspit is allowed to remain then it will have a detrimental impact on not just the value of my home but all the others in the road as well.
“Whenever it is emptied it creates an unbearable stench that permeates the entire road. It is horrendous.
“It makes it impossible to open the windows or venture outside.
“We are not in the middle of the countryside where there might be a need for a property to have a cesspit, nor are we living in Victorian times.”
In his application, Mr Levesconte said he built the summer house to replace an old one that was at risk of falling down.
He said it is intended to be used “in the summer when having barbecues or family round” and that the cesspool is emptied every six months.
However, others questioned the purpose of the facility. Linda Bedford said: “I do not think a cesspool is necessary in an urban area with a mains sewage system. It is unnecessary in a summer house, when there is a toilet in the main building.
“It is a potential health hazard if not properly maintained and emptied, and would be a source of terrible smells during the emptying process.”
It is understood that Mr Levesconte, 57, believes the cesspool does not produce any smells and that he does not wish to upset any neighbours.
He stressed the toilet has been fitted correctly, but would not challenge any decision by BCP Council.
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