I accept, to an extent, the point made in the previous thread about rules being rules.. but they're also there to be applied with common sense and compassion, and in this instance.. that just wasn't done. The Council's thinking that the work would be 'intrusive' simply defies belief. The ultimate example perhaps, of local nomenklatura being out of touch.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/sussex/7878329.stm
If you're reading this Joe, you probably 'just' think you were unlucky enough to be in the wrong place at the wrong time but we and your council owe you far more than just bricks and mortar. Good luck in your new home.