Hadleigh town clerk and councillors are looking to use a loop hole in planning rules to put bollards and a yellow line alongside the Grade 1 Listed Guildhall.

The council is also being investigated for carrying out works to build two kitchens inside the historic building without seeking permission.

Both moves have angered Hadleigh residents, including neighbours who claim their access to their homes and businesses would be seriously affected.

Restricting access for neighbours at Guildhall (Picture: submitted)

Hadleigh town council are the sole trustees of the town's Market Feoffment Charity that runs the Guildhall and is responsible for its upkeep and wellbeing.

Clerk Wendy Brame sent a letter to neighbours outlining their plans to paint a yellow line and install bollards at the 500-year-old building which is a tourist attraction, along with the nearby St Mary's Church and Deannery.

The council plan to use permitted development rights, which negates the need to get planning permission from Babergh District Council or seek advice from the heritage team to install the new restrictions.

One resident told Nub News: "The council has been dreadful neighbours over the past couple of years. They are making life very difficult for home owners, businesses and even a charity that requires access for deliveries.

"To put ugly yellow lines and hideous bollards alongside one of Hadleigh's prettiest and most iconic buildings is a disgrace, especially when there does not appear to be any good reason for it, or any sort of proper accountability."

The sole trustee is also facing an investigation, and potential sanctions, after starting work inside the listed Guildhall to create two kitchens, without permission or advice.

Neighbours from Hell? Hadleigh town council

An enforcement officer has been to check the state of the inside of the building following complaints from residents.

A spokesperson for Babergh District Council said the council was unable to comment on live investigations, other than to confirm that officers had visited the site and were now reviewing the matter. 

Hadleigh town council gave the charity, run by themselves a £45,000 grant in the last financial year, according to accounts posted for 2022/2023.

Hadleigh town council and mayor Gordon McLeod have been approached for comment but have not responded.