Jeremy and Elaine Zielinski have been ordered to demolish their three-bedroom home in Great Abingdon, Cambridgeshire, after violating planning laws. Initially granted permission to build a stallion semen collection center with a small flat for staff, the couple instead converted the property into a residential home on their 17-acre land. The local council intervened in 2023 upon discovering the property’s use as a family residence, leading to an appeal that was ultimately rejected by a planning inspector.

The Zielinskis claimed they were unaware of the legal implications of their actions, with Elaine expressing a desire to remain in their home and Jeremy stating the financial loss from the situation could amount to £1 million. They argued that the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted their business plans, forcing them to live in the property while still attempting to operate their business. However, the planning inspector noted that the building had a distinctly residential appearance and found insufficient evidence that the intended business had been established.

Despite their claims of ignorance and hardship, the planning inspector concluded that the breach of planning policy was significant enough to warrant demolition, stating that any interference with the couple’s living situation would be proportionate given the circumstances. The Zielinskis are now seeking legal advice to challenge the decision, as they face the prospect of losing their home within the next year.