Large fencing and bushes hide his activities from existing neighbours and a nearby hill. Now Mr Howard’s privacy is threatened by homes due to be built on land — currently occupied by garages — next to his house. Mr Howard said a council officer warned him his new neighbours could phone the police to have him arrested for indecency. Nudism in public is generally legal so long as it does not cause “harassment, alarm or distress” to other people. Mr Howard said: “Naturists don’t want to offend people. We’re law-abiding citizens.
“For 17 years I’ve been in my garden legitimately and now at 70 years old they’re making me a criminal. I’ve tailored the garden so I can sunbathe without anyone seeing. Everyone around here knows and I’ve never had any problems.” Mr Howard believes the decision breaches several sections of article 8 of the Human Rights Act. Alleged contraventions include respect for Mr Howard’s private life, freedom of thought and belief, living the life he chooses, being safe and protected from harm and enjoying his property without unnecessary interference.
He said: “This act sets out certain principles, which I consider the planners have ignored, and if allowed to go ahead it could have a detrimental impact on my private life.” Mr Howard said he approached his solicitor about suing the council but was told that action would cost up to £100,000. He said: “I don’t want to pay that sort of money. The solicitor said it was a very grey area. It would have to go to the High Court.” Mr Howard plans to continue sunbathing even after the houses are built and people can see into his garden.
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