Building Back Better

Red-tape fanatics in Cornwall have ordered the demolition of nine corporate cabins built by a seaside hotel. The hotel hosted last summer's rah-and-blah of the G7, and demonstrated a commendable zeal for entrepreneurial values by knocking up the three native bungalows without bothering to wait for planning permission. In keeping with the new, higher environmental standards permitted by our liberation from the Euro-wog yoke, the buildings ruined the landscape and demolished numerous wildlife habitats. Despite these advantages, the local council ordered their removal; and an unelected planning inspector has upheld the decision even though permission for the fait accompli was eventually sought. The demolition and restoration is likely to cost hundreds of thousands, which just goes to show how uneconomical it can be to mix Britishness with affordable accommodation.