A PENSIONER has claimed he has been banned from gardening outside his home after a row over his flower bed and a miniature 1ft fence.
Julian Phillips, 80, transformed what he described as a “mud field” outside his block of flats into a well-groomed lawn and colourful flower garden.
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But he soon wound up in a feud with housing group Orbit, who branded his ankle-high picket fence a “trip hazard” and told him to stop tending the area.
“I can’t see what the problem is because people living here have complimented my work,” said Julian.
“All I do is try my best to make the garden look lovely for everyone who lives here.”
The group allegedly confiscated his lawnmower and asked him not to store it in the communal garage – a claim they deny.
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The row first erupted two months ago, after green-fingered Julian decided to inject some life into the grounds surrounding the 31-flat development.
Julian laid down fresh turf, planted colourful flowers and installed a 1ft high fence to stop cars from driving over the garden.
However, Orbit promptly objected, insisting he take it down.
The housing association told him his workmanship raised “safety concerns” and failed to meet the “required specifications and standards”.
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The group initially said they would remove the fence within seven days, but sent workmen three weeks later to rip it out.
They have further advised residents not to garden the area themselves as the area is already looked after by a contractor.
Frustrated by the ban, Julian claims he has not received any complaints about the garden from residents.
A spokesman for the housing association said: “We appreciate customers taking pride in where they live and wanting to help make communal
spaces look their best.
“However, the gardens at Helgate Court are a shared area for all
residents.
“Mr Philips’ concern relates to a separate fence, which was added without the agreement and support of other customers, who have told us they are worried about the fence when parking, as well as the safety of neighbours who use walking aids or mobility scooters.
“We can confirm that Mr Philips’ lawn mower has remained in his possession throughout.
“We will continue to work with all customers at Helgate Court to make sure the communal areas are safe, well maintained and enjoyable for everyone.”