A couple have launched a desperate battle to save their dream home which has been earmarked for demolition – just six weeks after they bought it.
Alan and Vicky Glynn, both 69, were delighted when they purchased The Eaves, a smart five-bedroomed property in Bodmin.
But just six weeks later, they received a letter from Cornwall Council offering to buy the house – but not specifying what it would be used for.
Vicky conducted her own inquiries and discovered plans for a relief road – not yet made public – would involve demolishing the house.
The couple immediately informed the council they did not want to sell their home but the authority could still buy it through a compulsory purchase order.
A compulsory purchase order (CPO) allows authorities to obtain land or property without the consent of the owner – giving Vicky and Alan no choice but to lose their beloved home.
They have contacted their local MP and have pledged to do what they can to stop the demolition but fear it could be inevitable.
Heartbroken Vicky said: "We only completed on the house on October 31 and it's the home we've always dreamt of owning.
"But then we got this letter from the council which didn't say what they wanted it for.
"I was shocked to find out they want to knock it down for the new road – it's heartbreaking."
Vicky has contacted local MP Dan Rogerson for help saving their house from demolition.
The council could buy the house through a compulsory purchase order, which may be enforced if a planned development is 'for public betterment'.
"We have told the council's agents we do not want to sell the house, but because it is for a road scheme they could go for a CPO," said Vicky. "That would be devastating.
"We started renovating the new house for us to move in, but that has had to stop because of the uncertainty over what's happening."
The council is expected to go public on its plans for the road network in the new year.
Councillor for Bodmin East, Lance Kennedy, said: "There has been public demand for improvements to the road network and air quality in the town.
"A new scheme has been prepared by the council for consultation which will relieve traffic congestion in the town centre. It will improve the pedestrian experience in Bodmin and improve air quality.
"If, after public consultation, the scheme is approved, it will mark a significant investment in Bodmin and will prepare for future growth."
