A BATCHWOOD couple who put up a boundary garden fence to protect their children from harm should have applied for planning permission.

Councillor Chris Brazier, planning portfolio holder at St Albans District Council, has responded to Ian and Melanie Reay's complaints about having to take the fence down because it is too high.

An enforcement notice was sent to the couple from the district council informing them they have breached planning control.

The family has had to endure speeding cars crashing into their low garden wall and claim putting up a high fence was the only way of protecting their children.

However the Reays, of Francis Avenue, claim they were led to believe the permission from their housing association was enough to go ahead with the 1.8 metre high boundary infront of their garden.

Councillor Brazier added: "Any fence over a metre high which obstructs motorists' visibility is a road safety issue.

"Mr and Mrs Reay were invited to submit an application which was refused by the planning committee - but they have now appealed against the decision.

"Some people who apply for planning permission for fences more than a metre high are sometimes granted permission but all cases are different."

To read more about the Reays' story click the related link below.