EXCLUSIVE Wedding business owner 'forced to destroy couples' dreams' after local council refused retrospective planning permission
A devastated entrepreneurial couple have described how they had to 'destroy a lot of couple's dreams' after shutting down their outdoor wedding event business because of a council's concerns about a tiny medieval moat.
Katy and Joe Bird founded Hardwick Moat Weddings in Cambridgeshire, which won five-star reviews for the 'romantic' events it staged at its 'beautiful venue' in meadows once grazed by cattle.
But they have now dissolved the company and contacted shattered brides and grooms to cancel their bookings after the local planning authority complained it threatened the water feature it described as 'potentially comparable to nationally significant scheduled monuments'.
Examples of the 20,000 scheduled monuments on the National Heritage List for England include the Cruise missile shelter at Greenham Common Airbase and Kits Coty House, a Neolithic long barrow in Kent.
Huntingdonshire District Council also claimed heavy machinery had been used on the site and that there were light, noise pollution and traffic issues – all of which Mr and Mrs Bird emphatically dispute.
They could have appealed against the decision by Huntingdonshire District Council but gave up after spending £15,000 on reports they insist proved their case.
The loss of the business has also cost £100,000 to the local economy, as they used suppliers sourced from a ten-mile radius of the venue in Tilbrook.
'They made their minds up that they didn't want to work with us, even though we jumped through every single hoop,' said Mrs Bird, 37.
'They just kept throwing something new at us, often at the last minute.
'We've cancelled three bookings in 2026 and stopped taking new bookings because we were so scared we'd have to let other brides and grooms down. We've probably had 20 weddings we had to say no to.
'I cancelled one wedding face to face and the other two were in phone calls. They were devastated.
'One bride had chosen the venue two years ago. She'd already been to suppliers and had to cancel them and lose the deposits.'
The couple set up their business in 2021 after holding their own wedding that year at the four-acre site, which was used for grazing cattle until a few years earlier. More recently wheat has been grown there.
Set in rolling countryside with stunning views, they set up a marquee in one field and organised glamping in a neighbouring meadow for a memorable night under the stars for the happy couple and their guests.
Just 12 events took place each year under a temporary licence, during which a maximum of 150 people would be transported between the site and a car park by an old Ferguson tractor with a trailer on the back.
But they hadn't realised planning permission was needed as it was on private land and were stunned when the council said the business it could affect the archaeological remains of the medieval moat, which still has water running through it, and risked 'diluting the rural character of the area'.
In their application, Mr and Mrs Bird stated any potential impact on archaeological remains could be 'ruled out' as no significant ground invasive works had been undertaken.
They also commissioned a series of reports, including wildlife, light, noise and highways studies, to show it wouldn't have a detrimental effect for the area.
The impact on the local environment was 'minimal', they claimed, as the marquee went up in April and was taken down in September, while bell tents in the glamping area were erected on the Friday of wedding weekends and removed on the Sunday.
Other evidence included the average wedding having 80 guests during the day and an additional 20 in the evening.
'The proposal represents farm diversification for the landowner, providing an additional income stream to the farm, and offers substantial economic benefits to the local economy,' the application stated.
But the council said heavy machinery had been used at the spot and works included 'reshaping of the moat'. De-turfing to lay paths and using heavy equipment on a sensitive archaeological could have an impact, it added.
'The proposed development would dilute the rural character of the area through the introduction of incongruous and intrusive hard edges in the countryside and weaken the visual gap between the village of Tilbrook and the rural countryside,' it concluded.
Mother-of-five Mrs Bird, whose 38-year-old husband runs a separate events firm, denied the claims, saying: 'The main marquee goes up on what was a ploughed field for about 100 years.
'The moat was full of old brambles and fallen down elderflower trees which we cleared before raking the ground and hand-seeding grass. We didn't remove any trees.'
No machinery was used on the site, she added, and the tractor operated on the opposite side of the field from the moat.
A small steel-beamed bridge over the water feature to allow people to move from the marquee to their tents was transported there in her husband's van and put in place with the help of four men.
Mrs Bird also pointed out the site was in a dip in the land which meant it 'couldn't be seen' from the nearby village and festoon LED lights were slung just 6.5ft above the ground to avoid it affecting the surround area and were used for a maximum of 48 hours every year.
The trader who supplied the bell tents for guests to stay overnight estimates he has been left with a shortfall of up to £20,000
'The council never came to visit us on any occasion. I asked multiple times for people from the council to come,' said Mrs Bird, who has now started an independent funeral director service in nearby St Neots.
She and her husband could have appealed against the latest decision but decided not to as the legal battle had drained the company's resources.
Andrew Brodie, 73, the farmer whose land the Birds used, said he was surprised the moat had been compared to a listed monument as medieval moated farmsteads were 'not uncommon' as they were created to pen in cattle and provide them with water and his had even been dredged in the distant past.
He added: 'It's been government policy for farming to diversify. From my point of view, it's an ideal diversification because it's out of the way and didn't disturb anyone. I've never had anyone complain to me.'
The couple were also backed by disappointed local suppliers including Dawson Nixon, who provided the bell tents through his firm Pitched Perfect Events.
He complained the council ruling was 'an absolute travesty' that had personally cost him £15-20,000 in turnover each year.
'They are literally 15 minutes down the road from me and it was a pleasure working with them,' he said.
'The venue was amazing and they didn't ask for any commission, while other people want 20 per cent commission. They weren't interested – they just wanted the best local suppliers. They created a really good vibe.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Telegraph
6 hours ago
- Telegraph
Five essential things to know before you board an Azamara cruise ship
If ever there was a truly boutique cruise line, it is Azamara Cruises, whose four virtual carbon-copy ships exude country house bonhomie – thanks to their compact size and sprinkling of classically elegant touches. Bridging the gap between the most luxurious six-star lines and the market's premium players, Azamara styles itself as premium-plus, by corralling drinks and gratuities into fares. Consequently, the line includes more items than mainstream outfits, but fewer than the more all-inclusive upscale brands. Yet, beneath its classical façade is the innovative spirit of an adventurer, which has pioneered some key trends that have taken root in the cruising world. Having been founded in 2007 as the niche cruise brand of the Royal Caribbean group, Azamara Cruises turned its attention to capitalising on the countries it visits in the most imaginative of ways – a concept it has continued to build on since being sold to private equity group Sycamore Partners in 2021. After coining the term 'destination immersion' in 2010, which the line has since trademarked, Azamara looked at how it could enable guests to scratch beneath the surface and enjoy a deeper flavour of the places it visits. One of the biggest moves, that has now spread across the cruise industry, were longer stays by its ships which, instead of sailing off in the usual early evening, would stay late into the night or until the following morning – giving passengers more time ashore. Another signature event the line pioneered were AzAmazing Evenings, offered as complimentary on every sailing and involving immersive cultural experiences that showcased destinations. These bespoke spectacles ranged from operatic performances and medieval festivals to carnival celebrations and orchestral recitals. 1. Where does Azamara Cruises sail? As Azamara's fleet has grown, so has the scope of its sailings. The line covers all the world's continents, including Antarctica – though as its ships hold more than 500 guests, they are not permitted to stop there. What marks out Azamara Cruises is its regular evening departures at 8 pm or later. Marketed as 'Extended Destination Days', these give guests 10 or more hours in port, enabling them to spend more time ashore after other cruise lines and day-trippers have departed. The same goes for overnight stops, which are included on most voyages. The Mediterranean and Caribbean feature strongly in Azamara itineraries, and the cruise company has been among the first to announce winter voyages in the former. Azamara also offers several sailings to Australasia, Japan and Alaska, where the line's 'Cruisetours' combine stays in the Alaskan wilderness with voyages. There's an extensive programme of add-on stays to complement voyages in regions including Europe, Africa and Asia, too. Another signature is its destination-rich or 'intensive' sailings to the likes of Italy, Spain and Greece that include overnights in key ports and delve more deeply into the region as its ships can access smaller ports. Azamara makes a point of tying in voyages with key festivals or events – whether it's St Patrick's Day in Ireland, Seville's Feria de Abril festival, or the Monaco Grand Prix, while theming some sailings around wine and culture. 2. Who does Azamara Cruises appeal to? Azamara sailings generally attract slightly older – the average age is 55 and upwards –well-travelled and active couples, who have a keen interest in the countries they are visiting. They prefer the intimacy of small-ship cruises, and as Azamara offers several longer voyages, guests are generally retired. Most tend to hail from the US, UK and Australia in that order. This isn't a cruise line for young families, as there are no children's activities or facilities onboard. However, the more personal atmosphere of Azamara's ships and collective activities – such as White Night party evenings and AzAmazing experiences– lend a chummy club-like feel that also appeals to solo travellers or friends travelling together. 3. Azamara Cruises' fleet Azamara's four fleet members are virtually identical, and there's a reason for that. Known as R-class ships, they were originally built for a Florida-based cruise company called Renaissance Cruises between 1999 and 2001. However, the line went bankrupt in September 2001 – amid the economic downturn brought on by the 9/11 attacks – and its ships were sold. The distinctive onboard design and styling runs like a common thread between them. Think of an archetypal country house hotel, with traditional touches that blend with more modern frills added in subsequent upgrades. Dark wood panelling complemented with classic brass fittings is a common theme, along with each ship's central staircase, bordered by wrought iron balustrades, that sweeps regally into the reception area. The ambience is intimate, without being stuffy or formal, and there are no set dress codes. The compact size of these ships means they are quick and easy to get around without the endless long corridors of floating mega-resorts. There is just one main swimming pool, on the central deck, but this generally stays remarkably uncrowded. The Living Room, one of the main lounges at the front of the ships, is light and sophisticated with velvet sofas and birdcage swing chairs. Elsewhere, The Drawing Room, with its fireplace and grand piano, is more stately. A newer addition is the hip Atlas Bar on Azamara Onward, where baristas serve up artisanal cocktails. For what are relatively compact ships, there is a good choice of dining spots with the main restaurant and buffet, plus The Patio offering al fresco dining. But the most memorable venues are the Prime C steakhouse and Aqualina Italian restaurants that occupy an enviable position at the back of the ship, with far-reaching views. These two venues have a $49.95 per person cover charge, although guests staying in suites enjoy complimentary access. While these ships don't show their age, one giveaway is the relatively small size of cabins and their en-suites, but beyond this, guests will find everything they need on these ships: think a cabaret lounge, decent-size gym, spa and wellness terrace with thalassotherapy pool. Journey Azamara Journey (702 passengers) Sails to: Mediterranean, Europe, Africa, Canary Islands, Eastern Seaboard, Caribbean, South America, Panama Canal, Antarctica Onward Azamara Onward (684) Sails to: Mediterranean, Europe, Caribbean, Pacific, Central America, Australasia, Asia, Africa, Canary Islands Pursuit Azamara Pursuit (702) Sails to: Mediterranean, Africa, Japan, Asia, Australasia, Pacific Coast, Alaska Quest Azamara Quest (702) Sails to: Mediterranean, Europe, Eastern Seaboard, Caribbean, South America, Antarctica, Panama Canal, South Pacific 4. Loyalty scheme Azamara's Circle Loyalty Programme has five tiers: Adventurer, Explorer, Discoverer, Discoverer Plus and Discoverer Platinum. Points are accrued for each night you sail and can be converted into perks. 5. Accessibility onboard Azamara caters for guests with disabilities or special needs who need to fill out the Special Accommodations Form on its website at least 40 days before US sailings or 80 days before all others. There are wheelchair accessible staterooms, activities and services and portable hearing room kits. Service dogs are allowed, and Braille is used in areas wherever possible.
Auto Blog
3 days ago
- Auto Blog
Driverless Cars Just Got a Boost
The NHTSA cuts autonomous carmakers some slack The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced that it is making significant changes to the approval process for vehicles without human controls. The overhaul, primarily aimed toward assisting carmakers and tech companies deploying self-driving vehicles without traditional controls like steering wheels or pedals, will include streamlined reviews of requests for exemptions from safety rules requiring these parts. Cars built without a steering wheel or brake pedals automatically require an NHTSA exemption, and previously, an application could take years. According to The Verge, the NHTSA has even spent years reviewing some manufacturers' applications without taking action, such as General Motors' now-defunct Cruise robotaxi. NHTSA exemptions will now be capped at 2,500 per automaker, and the approval process is expected to take months. Companies will apply for exemptions through the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), part of the NHTSA, and can produce vehicles over two or three years. Nuro, an American robotics company, is the only organization that the FMVSS has granted an exemption to so far, since its low-speed delivery robots can't accommodate humans. Tesla Cybercab — Source: Tesla How the NHTSA is improving its exemption process NHTSA officials stated in a release that they anticipate 'publishing the enhanced instructions shortly and will begin implementing the modified approach to evaluating exemption requests immediately.' These instructions will help manufacturers better understand application requirements and give companies more insight into the information most helpful to the NHTSA during their review. The NHTSA noted that its altered approach aims to help automated driving systems (ADS) reach their full potential in advancing road safety. Companies gain exemptions through the NHTSA's Part 555 process, but the NHTSA's recent release says this process's current state was designed for traditional vehicles and doesn't apply to ADS-equipped cars like robotaxis. Changes to modernize the Part 555 process include focusing on sections of exemption reviews that took extensive time, such as prolonged applicant follow-ups. How Tesla benefits from the NHTSA's recent changes While several companies benefit from the NHTSA's recent changes, the shift in practices is a significant development for Tesla, which is manufacturing its Cybercab, an autonomous, purpose-built vehicle without a steering wheel or pedals. Tesla CEO Elon Musk explained during the company's Q1 investor call that a Robotaxi could be any Tesla operating completely autonomously, which he claims most of the company's fleet is capable of. In contrast, the Cybercab refers to a specific upcoming model. Vice President of Vehicle Engineering at Tesla, Lars Moravy, said during the Q1 call that the Robotaxi is in sample B validation, meaning Tesla is validating a nearly finalized design and will begin its first big builds for the model at the end of Q2, with full-scale production launching next year. Tesla's robotaxi service launching next week with a limited fleet won't include Cybercabs. Instead, the autonomous rideshare service will consist entirely of Tesla's Model Y SUV. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Tesla Cybercab — Source: Tesla Final thoughts The NHTSA's new approach to granting companies exemptions on vehicles without human controls means applicants receive an answer in months instead of years, or not at all, and have more insight into the necessary information for proper submission. In turn, we should start seeing more autonomous vehicles on the road without steering wheels or pedals within the next couple of years, and Tesla is more likely to meet its Cybercab release timeline. About the Author Cody Carlson View Profile
TTG
3 days ago
- TTG
First Class Cruise celebrates launch with exclusive onboard event
Welcoming 40 top-selling travel agents from across the UK, the event showcased First Class Cruise's commitment to delivering unforgettable cruise holidays with a premium edge. The day offered agents a full ship tour and the chance to experience lunch onboard - capturing a taste of the high-quality service and experiences First Class Cruise will offer their customers. Cruise experts and tourism boards were on hand to support the event, including representatives from Holland America Line, Air Canada, the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Destination Vancouver, Tourism Whistler, and the iconic luxury rail company, Rocky Mountaineer. 'Our launch event brought together some of the most iconic travel brands to showcase how seamless and spectacular cruise holidays can be,' said Lorna Curry, Head of Product at the First Class Travel Group. 'We were thrilled to host so many engaged and enthusiastic agents who share our passion for delivering bucket-list holidays with a first-class experience from start to finish.' The event marked the official debut of First Class Cruise to the UK travel trade following the successful launch of First Class Cruise' brochure earlier this year. With a focus on tailor-made itineraries that combine premium cruising with pre and post stays in unforgettable destinations, the brand is already generating strong interest across the trade. 'We're so grateful to our partners and agents for making the day such a success and we're excited for what's to come,' added Lorna.
