An individual who owns an Airbnb property is facing allegations of hosting provocative parties on the premise, leading to the loss of a legal battle over the retention of a sauna and deck that neighbors claim were utilized for “debauchery.”
Owen Chandler Harrod promoted his bungalow in Ormesby St Margaret, Norfolk, as a charming retreat for couples, complete with a hot tub. However, locals assert that the hot tub turned into a location for outdoor intimate activities, visible to the community due to the elevated deck it sat upon.
Despite a previous denial of retroactive planning permission following claims of unauthorized construction work, Harrod’s appeal was rejected after numerous complaints from irate neighbors, some of whom alleged various inappropriate activities occurring at his residence.
Last year, Great Yarmouth Borough Council declined Harrod’s request for retrospective approval of the deck, sauna structure, and tall fencing. Following a site visit, the Planning Inspectorate dismissed Harrod’s appeal, noting that access to the property was denied during the inspection despite it maintaining a high Airbnb rating.
Residents had previously reported witnessing objectionable behavior from the property, including discarded condoms in their yards and disturbing noises emanating from the nondescript bungalow.
Local residents, Rosemary Vincent, 90, and John Huxford, 80, voiced concerns about the alleged activities at the property, with Huxford describing witnessing inappropriate behavior on the deck and in the hot tub, leading to litter being thrown into his garden.
After warning Harrod of the consequences of non-attendance under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, the inspector dismissed his appeal.
The Airbnb listing for the bungalow highlights it as a serene coastal retreat with luxurious amenities, offering a peaceful location near the seaside.
Harrod, the property owner, who acquired the premises during the pandemic, may now be compelled to remove the sauna and dismantle the deck and fencing.
In response to the situation, Harrod mentioned positive feedback from guests and neighbors, emphasizing the success of the Airbnb rental and expressing openness to discussions with concerned neighbors if needed.