Living through the new house being built next door

[scottnsw]

I am suffering from a traumatic brain injury and came home from rehab to find the house next door being demolished and rebuilt. The people did not go through local council but rather the state government. No communication occurred followed by months of terrible noise, dust and no contact from the owners. The house got bigger, a fence was built and still no commmunication or manners. it has been really difficult having been treated with such disrespect. I want to make a fuss, shout....do something. It used to be. lovely neighbourhood but now the rich ar emvong in and building these huge monstrosities. If the hospitla had known what wa sin store I would never have been allowed home. I had to move my 94 year old mother out as she could not cope. It is a mess. I am depressed and angry and want to do something about this but dont know what I can do.

[Summer Rose]

Hi Scottnsw

I was really sorry to hear about your brain injury and depression,  and can certainly understand how challenging the construction of your neighbour’s house must be for you.  It really is unfair and incredible that your neighbours were able to circumvent the council process. I’m really sorry this is happening.

I have a couple of ideas for action that you may want consider.

You could contact a lawyer, legal aid or the law society to determine what legal rights you may have in this situation. I would be seeking to determine if there are any potential avenues of compensation available—particularly given the cost of relocating your mother and the impact on your health—and seeking information about how to lodge a formal complaint with the government.

You could also choose to raise your concerns with your local MP. You can do this in writing or by requesting a meeting.

You could also tell your story to the media. I don’t know where you live but suggest you consider radio or newspaper outlets.

You could also have a chat with other neighbours and see if anyone else shares your concerns and if they are interested in also complaining. There is strength in numbers and they may have further ideas.

I wish you good luck with this issue and with your recovery. 
Kind thoughts to you 

[Butterfly101]

Hi - I feel your pain! Can you contact the state government and speak to the relevant people? Tell them of your problems and concerns and see if there is any action you can take to help you. Your local member would be another good person to talk to about your issues. You may be able to be compensated in some way - not sure but it would be relieving for you and your mum if you could both live somewhere else until the noise stops from next door 😊