Farmer builds castle behind hay bales to hide it from building inspectors (with pictures)

A farmer lived with his wife and children for 4 years in a mock castle which he built behind a screen of hay bales to evade planning regulations. Robert Fidler wanted to take advantage of a provision of planning law that allows buildings without planning permission to be declared legal if no objections are made within 4 years.

The castle includes a conservatory, marquee structure, wooden bridge, patio, decking and tarmac racecourse. There are also two turrets at the back as well as a canon. But chances don't look too bright since Reigate and Banstead Borough Council in Surrey said that the provision does not count because the property was hidden. The building which is about 30km south of London will probably be destroyed.

via [Yahoo]