Prime Minister Rishi Sunak can build a fence around his home, despite protests from locals.
North Yorkshire Council said he can press ahead with plans to put up a wooden barrier around his Grade II listed mansion. Last month, the Sunday Mirror revealed that local residents had objected to the 165ft-long fence, fearing it would adversely impact badgers and other wildlife.
Mr Sunak, 43, submitted the application after eco protesters walked through an unlocked gate and climbed on to the roof of his £1.5million home in Kirby Sigston, North Yorks, in August. His planning agent said the fence presents “no issues in terms of landscape impact” and will be “a simple, modest barrier to discourage incursion”.
Villager Sarah Widdowson claimed the fence could destroy natural habitats and become an “eyesore” in the beauty spot. Her official objection read: “I often park adjacent to the manor on the road and watch the badgers on a night – to change the landscape of the area with a fence is an unnecessary decision. We should be protecting and preserving what makes our county look so beautiful, not putting up ugly and harsh fencing.”
Meanwhile, the PM U-turned on plans to cut spending on his “helicopter addiction”. Sunak's taste for short-haul flights has long sparked criticism from taxpayers and climate activists. Spending was due to be cut from September with the Government promising not to renew a £40million contract which funded the flights. But we can reveal the deal has been extended.
Emily Thornberry, Shadow Attorney General, said: “Rishi Sunak just can’t shake his helicopter addiction – even the thought of taking a train to Essex was enough to make him break his promise.” Lib Dem deputy leader Daisy Cooper said: “He is taking taxpayers for a ride.”
The Ministry of Defence said in August the contract with Sloane Helicopters would end and the firm announced the auction of a chopper used by the PM. An MoD spokesman said at the time the move was “part of ensuring funds are prioritised on key areas”. But the deal was extended and the chopper taken off the market.
Minister Andrew Murrison admitted this week the PM made two helicopter trips in the last month, including one to a school in Lincolnshire which would have cost as little as £25 each way for a one-hour train ride. The Government said private flights were chartered for logistical and security reasons.