Neighbour wants to replace MY fence, I don’t want them to!

[Fencewoes]

We have recently had new neighbours move in next door. A month ago they said that they would like to replace all of the fences around their garden (sides and back) which includes replacing mine. They said they will pay for this as they want their garden to look uniform. At first I was on board with this, actually quite pleased at the thought of having a brand new fence as mine is quite old, however they have now said they will be replacing my current 4ft fence with a 6ft fence instead.

I have told them I do not want them to replace my fence with anything higher than 4 ft. They’ve now said that in that case, instead of replacing my fence, they will just build another fence against mine in their garden. So basically, I will retain my current fence, then there will be another in their garden, but I will have double fences on my side! Is this even allowed?

Four foot fence gives no privacy, just go for the free six foot fence, they are going to put one up anyway.

What’s your objection to the 6ft fence?

I think you are daft to refuse.

Fences cost a lot of money to replace especially if you can't do it yourself. Most people want 6ft fences and you would get a brand new one for free.

And yes as everyone has said they can erect their own in front of yours on their boundary so you will still have a 6ft fence between you.

I don't understand your objection tbh OP, why would you want to be able to see into their garden/them see into yours?

What’s your objection to the 6 foot fence?

You’re not being bullied.

If they were bullying you they wouldn’t be willing to lose some of their own garden for their fence. You’re being stubborn over a 2ft height difference. They could plant trees and it would be much higher than 6ft. You have no right to that 2ft view over their garden.

Maybe they rightly so think your going to be a nosey neighbour poking their nose over..

I think yes, you're stuck.

My neighbours had a crumbling brick wall between theirs and mine. They didn't ask me about what might be done, Instead of replacing the wall they just built a swish higher new fence hiding the wall from their side.

Now I get to look at the old crumbling wall and the top of the back of a brand new fence, looks so shit.

Just accept their original proposal.

I don't understand why you wouldn't want a nice, new, free fence that provides you with more privacy and security?

People are being a bit harsh on the OP! Your neighbours can do this but if the garden is small I can see you may not want a higher fence. I like the trellis idea someone suggested. Whatever you do, don't get into a row with them about it - a good relationship with your neighbours if more important

Of course they can do whatever they want, it's not up to you, as long as it's on their land

I do understand how you feel OP, you're ticking along with your 4 ft fence then new neighbours want to change it. Would annoy me too. But as other have said, you can't do anything about it, so I'd suck it up and just have the new fence.

I would ask for the 'right side' to be on my side though.

Sadly it seems as if you have to choose which fence will be the lesser of two evils, @Fencewoes - one six foot fence in place of your current one, or your fence plus a gap then a six foot fence. Personally, I'd choose the single fence as the preferable option, even though it isn't exactly what you want.

Every other garden here has 4ft fences, it has a real community feel. They will be the only ones in the row that have 6ft fences.

You are not being bullied.
Actually they have been incredibly lovely and curious.
Why should they consider you above the?
They gave you a generous offer. You rejected it.
You can't have it all your own way.

They are not bullying you.

They offered to take on the expense but as you have said no then they will just do what they legally can by erecting their own on their land to suit what they prefer. You prefer your old 4ft one so that will remain as you have requested.

It's hardly bullying!

They asked very nicely, offered to pay, but you were not happy with the height. They don't have to replace like for like if they're paying for it, as long as it's permissible.

You declined the offer because you're not happy with the height.

Tough then! They get nice uniform fencing and you get the ugly view your side.

Who wouldn't want a free 6ft fence?! Why do you want to keep a 4ft one?

Just have the new fence, I actually like my neighbours but the thought of a 4 foot fence just no way.

Most people prefer a 6ft fence. It gives privacy. A 4ft fence means you can see into their garden and vis versa. They're really not being un reasonable

Unless there is a local covenant restricting the boundary fences to 4ft, they have every right to erect a 6ft fence on their land.

Why would anyone want a community feel in their own garden? 😄

And then don't want to join that.
They want privacy.

Why are you right and they are wrong ?
You want a 4ft fence and they want a 6ft one.
You have yours and they will be having theirs.
Your garden , your choice , likewise for them .

Ah, so you’re upset that you can’t see your neighbours or the neighbours across from next door now when they’re hanging their washing out and you have a chat?

Well they obviously want privacy, not to chat to their neighbours over the fence. It's their property and l can understand, l would want privacy too.