Neigbour fixed fence to wall

[Lanalou2012]

My elderly mother has neighbours who has bolted their fence into her masonry. I was wondering how we proceed with getting them to remove it. She phoned the local planning office and they said they don't deal with such matters.

[des8]

You ask the neighbour politely to remove the fence, and make good the damage to the wall, as they are trespassing.

You could point out that it would only have been good manners to ask first, and then they would not have to undo their work as permission would not have been given.

[atticus]

I agree.

[Lanalou2012]

May thanks for your response. She has already asked then to remove it. She just ignored her. They don't get along.

[des8]

So write asking for it to be removed. (first class post with free certificate of posting from post office)
In the letter point out that they are trespassing and that the damage to the wall could be considered criminal.
Explain that your mother does not want the relationship to deteriorate, nor does she wish to take legal action, but if the trespass does not cease within two weeks(?) she will need to take steps to protect her property

If that doesn't work she could then involve the police or eventually after sending another warning letter, seek a court order fot its removal and making good the damage or both

[islandgirl]

Great advice but I do not understand why the Police would be in the slightest bit interested? What am I missing?

[des8]

Drilling holes in a third party's masonry without permission is causing damage to property which is an offence under the Criminal Damage Act 1971.
The police may not be interested as it may well be regarded as minimal, but if one was to mention that it might lead to a breach of the peace as well ............................

[islandgirl]

got you! I think the value is more in mentioning it to the neighbours if things go downhill as I am sure the Police will go for "its a civil matter sir"!