Hotelier's 'cupcake' and mini-canal planning row

A HOTELIER who spent £55,000 building his own canal and a 'giant cupcake' in his garden says he faces having to rip them down after falling foul of planning laws.

- ED CHATTERTON News Reporter

Stephen Cuddy first made headlines after building a mini-canal system - complete with lock and a narrowboat which he converted into a swimming pool.

His next bizarre project involved constructing a cupcake-shaped wedding venue within the grounds of Grimscote Manor Hotel in Coleshill, Warkwickshire.

Both creations were hailed by TV's George Clarke as among the best 'Amazing Spaces' he had ever featured on the Channel 4 show.

But it has now emerged Mr Cuddy did not have council approval for either and has been warned they may have to go if he does not get retrospective permission.

The 59-year-old fears he will have to demolish his labours of love as he can't afford the legal fees to fight the local authority.

"I don't know what to do as I don't have the money to fight them," he said. "I thought I could build these things as a result of my permitted development rights.