A man who built two homes without planning permission in Leominster, Herefordshire, is auctioning them off for £30,000 to avoid demolition and potential jail time. Martin Rhode spent £220,000 constructing the semi-detached properties in Duke's Walk but faced legal consequences when the council ordered their removal.

Legal Battle and Financial Struggles

Last year, Martin Rhode was threatened with imprisonment for failing to comply with a court injunction to demolish the properties. Despite his efforts to meet the council's demands, they rejected his timeline due to 'significant anomalies.' The unfinished homes have been abandoned since 2019, becoming a haven for squatters, vandalism, and drug users.

The council is seeking £300,000 in compensation, but Rhode claims financial hardship and has attempted various solutions to resolve the issue. Ultimately, he decided to auction the properties to avoid selling his beloved Porsche.

Community Impact

Neighbors describe the failed project as a 'misery' and 'hell on earth,' with the derelict homes becoming a 'blemish' on the town's heritage. The ongoing situation has caused significant distress to the local community, prompting Rhode's decision to sell the properties at a fraction of their original cost.