A retired man from a Hampshire village has found himself at the centre of an unexpected planning dispute after constructing an enormous, fully-featured pirate ship in his own back garden.
The Ship That Sparked a Storm
Steve Coombs, a resident of Horndean, built the impressive vessel, which boasts a captain's hideout, a moving ship's wheel, rigging netting, and even a cannon. What began as a small seasonal display has grown into a major local attraction, particularly at Halloween and Christmas.
Mr Coombs explained his motivation, stating, 'Last year we did a little display but the kids wanted to get on it and steer it, so I thought I could do something they could interact with.' He estimates he has spent a couple of thousand pounds building the ship over the course of a year, fulfilling a personal ambition. 'I think once in your life you have to build a pirate ship,' he added.
A Community Divided: Joy Versus Complaints
While the pirate ship has become a beloved feature for many in the community, it has also attracted formal complaints. An anonymous neighbour reported the structure to the East Hampshire District Council (EHDC), triggering a formal investigation by the Local Planning Authority.
Mr Coombs received a letter informing him of the investigation, which he said left him in disbelief. He accused the complainant of being a 'killjoy,' and asserted, 'I don't know a single person who has said "ooh, I don't like that".' In contrast, local mother Karen Parish has written in support of the 'wonderful couple', describing their annual garden transformation as a 'magical Halloween experience' for children.
'Their garden is more than just a Halloween display; it's a symbol of what makes our neighbourhood special,' Ms Parish said, noting that the display had been a 'lifeline' for families during the Covid lockdown.
Council's Stance and The Path Forward
A spokesperson for EHDC acknowledged the ship's popularity but confirmed they are duty-bound to investigate potential breaches of planning rules. 'The law makes it clear that a structure of this size and in this location, even an unusual one like this, requires planning permission,' the spokesperson stated.
The primary concerns cited relate to 'the number of visitors and the local impact' the attraction generates. In response, the council has encouraged Mr Coombs to submit a retrospective planning application to regularise the situation, leaving the fate of the popular pirate ship hanging in the balance.
