The case of the Surrey farmer who constructed a four-bedroom home behind hay bales has been heard at the High Court in London this week, with several media reports on the proceedings.
- BBC News– ‘Council ‘wants to destroy’ hidden castle builder’
- Get Surrey– ‘Redhill farmer facing jail over ‘hidden castle’ claims council wants to ‘destroy his life’’
- Evening Standard – ‘Surrey farmer accuses council of being out to ‘destroy’ his life over battle to demolish Tudor castle’
The most up to date statement from Reigate and Banstead Borough Council (dated 23 October) states:
Following Mr Fidler’s failure to comply with the outstanding enforcement notices and Injunction Order in effect as a result of the Secretary of State’s decision effectively requiring demolition of the unauthorised house and associated structures, the Council lodged a claim for contempt of court proceedings which was due to be heard at the High Court today (Thursday 22 October 2015), along with an application by Mr Fidler to amend the original Injunction Order.
As Mr Fidler failed to attend court, the Judge adjourned the hearing until 2 November 2015 at 2pm to enable Mr Fidler to be present to answer the allegations that he is in breach of the Injunction Order and in contempt of court.
A spokesperson for the council said: ‘We accept the Court’s decision to adjourn the hearing to allow for Mr Fidler to be present and due process to be followed. The Judge was satisfied that Mr Fidler knew about today’s proceedings because he was twice served with Court papers and has himself made an application that was due to be heard today, but he has failed to attend.
Due to the serious consequences of these proceedings the Judge has afforded Mr Fidler a final opportunity to attend court. A warrant has been issued by the Judge to apprehend Mr Fidler to ensure he is present on 2 November. The Council has been awarded costs in full.
We cannot comment further until the conclusion of the hearing on 2 November.’
View the press release from Reigate and Banstead Borough Council
