A Nottingham influencer has been ordered to remove her custom-built garden pergola after local council officials ruled that the structure must be taken down despite efforts to make it movable.
Annabelle Rogers originally created the pergola during the pandemic, transforming her garden into a relaxing outdoor space complete with comfortable seating, a hanging swing, an outdoor fire, and a small stock tank pool. The project quickly became a favorite feature on her social media, where she regularly shares home and garden inspiration.
However, the pergola became the subject of complaints from a neighbour, reportedly because the property is located within a conservation area. After initially being required to remove the structure, Rogers and her husband redesigned it by placing it on wheels, hoping that making it portable would address the council's concerns.
Despite the changes, the council later confirmed that the pergola would still need to be removed. Sharing the news with her followers, Rogers expressed disappointment, saying she had believed the redesign would satisfy the requirements and allow the outdoor feature to remain.
The decision has sparked debate online, with many people questioning whether the ruling was too strict. Supporters argued that the couple made a genuine effort to comply with regulations, while others pointed out that planning rules and conservation area restrictions exist to preserve the character of protected properties.
Although the pergola will now be dismantled, the story has highlighted the challenges homeowners can face when balancing creative home improvements with local planning regulations and neighbourhood concerns.