A Doctor’s Mega-Garage Faces Demolition After Planning Battle
A doctor has been ordered to tear down a massive outbuilding constructed next to his modest riverside cottage, following a long and contentious planning dispute. The structure, described as an L-shaped “mega-garage,” was built without proper planning permission and has now been deemed illegal by a government inspector.
Dr Martin Rooke, who owns Meadow Cottage near Warwick, had claimed the building was necessary to house a collection of classic cars. However, after years of legal challenges, the inspector ruled that the structure must be demolished within nine months. This decision marks the end of a lengthy battle over the development’s legality and its impact on the surrounding area.
The Scale of the Development
The controversy centers around the sheer size of the outbuilding. While the original cottage is a small two-bedroom home with a footprint of just 70 square metres, the garage-like structure spans approximately 367 square metres. This makes it more than five times larger than the house itself.
During a site visit in February 2026, the inspector noted that the building had become “by far the dominant building on the land.” Despite Dr Rooke’s claims that the structure was intended for a gym, workshop, and garaging, the reality on site told a different story. Only one car was currently stored inside, and no evidence of a classic car collection was provided.
Legal Challenges and Enforcement Actions
The enforcement notice at the center of the case was first issued in August 2018, following earlier attempts by the council to take action in 2016. These initial efforts were withdrawn due to technical errors. The final ruling came after a thorough review of the case, including a site inspection in early 2026.
The inspector also pointed out the lack of any clear use for the building over the years. The ruling stated: “There is apparent lack of any such use in all the time the building… has been available.”
The property lies in a Green Belt area, which is protected for its open space and natural beauty. Local complaints highlighted concerns about the scale and nature of the development, with the inspector noting that public interest considerations played a role in the decision to take enforcement action.
A Long and Complicated History
The case has a long and complicated history. Between 2008 and 2013, there were discussions about smaller outbuildings, including garages, a pool, and storage areas. In May 2011, Dr Rooke was warned that continuing work without permission could lead to enforcement action. Despite this, the massive structure was eventually built, leading to repeated attempts by authorities to address the issue.
Dr Rooke argued that the building fell under permitted development rules, claiming it was incidental to the enjoyment of the home. However, the inspector rejected this argument, stating that the scale of the structure, along with its extensive storage and office space, went far beyond what could reasonably be expected for a small cottage.
Final Ruling and Next Steps
The inspector concluded that the building had not been demonstrated as being required for purposes incidental to the enjoyment of Meadow Cottage. With the appeal dismissed, the enforcement notice now stands in full. This means the sprawling outbuilding must be demolished, and all resulting waste removed from the land within nine months.
Dr Rooke has not commented on the ruling, and Warwick District Council has not yet provided a statement. The case highlights the importance of adhering to planning regulations, especially in sensitive areas like the Green Belt. It also serves as a reminder that even well-intentioned projects can face significant legal hurdles if they do not meet the necessary criteria.
