Residents of a green community are incensed that squatters have moved into a bungalow that has been abandoned for so long that trees are sprouting out of it, is in ruins and is filled with trash, and is next to homes worth $1 million.
Described by neighbours as a “eyesore” and a “fire and health concern,” the property in Mere, Cheshire, has been vacant for eight years.
As a result, the rear of the building has collapsed, the roof is leaking, and two trees are sprouting out of the remains.
In addition, the bungalow’s windows have been broken, and the former owner’s possessions are all over the lawn.
In the community next to Knutsford, on Chester Road, where homes on the street sell for an average price of £695,000, the decaying property stands in sharp contrast to the adjacent buildings.
According to price estimates provided by Zoopla, the two neighbouring homes to the north of the abandoned cottage are each worth somewhere about £1 million.
The area’s most affordable home is now up for sale for a respectable £500,000, while the most expensive is a staggering £2.3 million.
An elderly woman and her two daughters are said to have been the bungalow’s former occupants; they reportedly resided there from 1999 until 2014 before leaving the neighbourhood.
The Mere Golf Resort and Spa, whose accommodations start at around £160 per night, is about half a mile from the cottage.
It is an eyesore and an awful abomination, claimed one person who desired to stay anonymous.
People don’t even realise there is a home here since it is so well-hidden by trees.
Even walking on the pavement is impossible due to how overgrown it is.
“The rear of the property has already collapsed.” We are concerned about where it will land next.
“It is now dangerous and a fire and health hazard.”
The home is thought to have been occupied by squatters since a neighbour saw several lights were on and returned later to find many lighted candles.
There is no gas or power; this is a fire danger, the neighbour who wished to remain unnamed stated.
Once they discovered a vehicle parked outside, the neighbours erected fence.
“This is unacceptable.” This is not something we ought to put up with.
We just ask that they board it up, clean the area, and make it secure.
When you glance inside the home, it seems as if eight years have passed.
Pictures from the previous owners are still hanging on the wall, and there is a television in the corner with a remote control sitting on top of it.
However, couches have been flipped over, and the flooring is covered with pots and pans.
The garden is overrun with weeds, and next to a barbeque sits a child’s bike that has been abandoned.
We simply don’t understand why nothing is being done, another homeowner snarled.
We’ve voiced our concerns to Cheshire East Council.
It could make a great house for a family.
The status of this home is known to the council, according to a Cheshire East Council spokeswoman.
It is now taking part in a legal procedure intended to settle unresolved issues.
“Until these issues are addressed, the council can make no further comment at this time,” it says.