Eco-house doom looms (From Stroud News and Journal)

Eco-house doom looms

ECO homeowner Jack Everett's 20-year battle against council bureaucracy could soon be at an end as councillors pursue an action to bulldoze his Sheepscombe home.

The sculptor built the house at Shutway Quarry but could soon see it demolished as Ebley Mill officers claim it has no valid planning permission.

Mr Everett, who lives in the picturesque spot with his three sons, has unsuccessfully taken the case to the High Court after claiming the council breached his human rights.

But yesterday building control councillors vowed to decide on the fate of the buildings after speaking to legal experts in February.

After the debate a defiant Mr Everett said he could not accept a council house because of his eco-friendly lifestyle.

"It does not fit in with my belief system and my lifestyle," he said. "That is where human rights are relevant.

"They are obliged to give me comparative housing. Have they got three quarters of an acre of land, woodland and a sustainable house? I do not think they have."

During the council debate some councillors appeared to be sympathetic to Mr Everett's situation.

Cllr Dennis Andrewartha (Lib Dem, Cam West) said: "Because this gentleman chooses to live in a different way to the rest of us, are we not running roughshod over his human rights?"