UK’s Largest “Man Cave” Owner Faces Legal Battle Over Classic Cars and Neighbor Complaints
Meet Graham Wildin, the owner of the UK’s biggest “man cave,” a colossal 10,000-square-foot retreat in Cirencester, Gloucestershire. Inside, there’s a bowling alley, a casino, and a cinema – it’s an entertainment paradise. But there’s a twist: Wildin built it in 2014 without the proper permission.
Legal Troubles and Classic Car Collection
Wildin’s journey has been filled with legal problems linked to his impressive “man cave.” He refused to dismantle it despite multiple court orders. He even spent time in jail last year for not following one of these orders.
Now, there’s a new development in this ongoing drama – his collection of classic cars, including a grey Bentley Turbo R, a yellow convertible Jenson-Healey sports car, and a burgundy Austin 1100, is causing issues. A judge has issued a “temporary order” to stop Wildin from disturbing his neighbors any further.
Parking and Surveillance Rules
This order has specific rules. First, Wildin can’t park more than two of his classic cars on the street. Second, he can’t cover the area with security cameras. If he doesn’t follow these rules, he could get arrested. However, Wildin plans to appeal this order.
Persistent Neighbor Complaints
Wildin’s neighbors have been complaining for a long time. They’re tired of being watched all the time and having their parking spaces blocked by his cars. One neighbor even couldn’t use her own driveway because of Wildin’s cars in the way. Others are frustrated about losing their parking spots when they’re at work.
Some neighbors say Wildin purposely creates parking problems with his classic cars, like playing a frustrating “cat and mouse” game. It’s made life very hard for people living nearby.
A Series of Legal Losses
This isn’t the first time Wildin has faced legal trouble. He’s had five defeats in court, starting in 2018. Initially, the court gave him until April 2020 to take down the “man cave,” but he didn’t, so he got a suspended sentence in 2021. His appeal against that sentence didn’t work, and he was then ordered to destroy the complex by March 2022.
But Wildin didn’t follow those orders either, leading to his imprisonment. Even after he got out, he couldn’t meet the court’s deadlines, and now he faces more costs for not following the rules.
Wildin’s Defense
During the most recent hearing, Wildin said he’s innocent and doesn’t shout or swear. He showed an aerial photo to the judge, pointing out that most of the cars on the street aren’t his. According to Wildin, he installed CCTV cameras to protect his cars because neighbors were blocking the road with taller units.
Despite his arguments, the police and the district council jointly issued an order for alleged anti-social behavior. Wildin’s “man cave” story continues, leaving neighbors frustrated and the courts tangled in this ongoing legal fight.