A CONTROVERSIAL fence has been granted retrospective planning permission, despite being labelled a symbol of “injustice, anxiety and fear” by nearby residents and councillors.

Today (November 22), members of Durham County Council’s planning committee approved the application for the two metre high timber fence at General Bucher Court in Bishop Auckland.

The former old people’s home is now partly used as a residence for homeless youths and the fence was put up over the summer on the advice of a crime prevention officer to stop anti-social behaviour.

However, Meridian Estates, which owns the site Hawthorn Road, failed to seek planning permission, much to the fury of nearby residents who say they should have been consulted.

Dean Rowntree, of Laburnum Road, described the fence as an intrusive, poorly constructed eyesore that blocks out natural light.

“It looks like a secure unit or an open prison,” he added.

Ward councillor John Lethbridge said the fence had not reduced anti-social behaviour, as youths were simply climbing over it.

“The whole thing has become a symbol of injustice, fear and anxiety,” he said.

However, the committee decided to follow planning officer’s recommendations and approved the application.

Coun Eddie Tomlinson said the fence well-built, adding: “The fact it has been stained has made it more in keeping with the area.”

Speaking after the meeting, resident Mark Langham, of Elm Terrace, said: “It is a joke and in my opinion it, was a foregone conclusion.”