Outrage as 17th-century thatched cottage in Nursling demolished without permission

Villagers in Nursling, near Southampton in Hampshire, were shocked when a 17th-century thatched cottage, considered a landmark of the parish, was demolished without planning permission. The property, not listed, was demolished in just one hour, leaving locals stunned. Lawrence Harfield, a resident of the village for 20 years, expressed disappointment at the sudden destruction of the iconic cottage. Test Valley Borough Council has initiated an investigation into the incident, as the council was not informed of the demolition plans.

The last planning application for the cottage was to build a new home on the adjacent land, which was approved but not yet implemented. Councillor Phil Bundy stated that the council is looking into whether the correct planning procedures were followed and is in communication with the owners regarding the demolition.

Residents, who considered the cottage a significant part of their heritage, were taken aback by its sudden disappearance. The community hopes that the responsible parties will rebuild the cottage to its former glory.