Co. Meath Couple Face Imminent Demolition of Home After 20-Year Planning Battle
The long-running legal saga of Chris and Rose Murray, a couple who built a home in Co. Meath without proper planning permission, is nearing its end. Demolition of their 588sq m (6,220sq ft) house at Faughan Hill, Bohermeen, is expected to start on Thursday, March 20, 2026, following a High Court order and subsequent seizure of the property by Meath County Council and An Garda Síochána.
Two Decades of Legal Challenges
The Murrays initially built the house in 2006 after being refused planning permission by Meath County Council. They subsequently launched five unsuccessful attempts to secure retention permission and three failed appeals, . The case culminated in the Supreme Court declining to hear their appeal last November.
Eviction and Arrest Warrant
On Monday, March 17, 2026, Meath County Council took possession of the property. Chris Murray stated that security personnel and Gardaí arrived while his three children, aged 19 to 24, were having breakfast, leading to their immediate eviction. All of their belongings remain inside the house. Murray also revealed that a warrant is currently out for his arrest due to his failure to demolish the property as previously ordered by the court.
Couple’s Plea and Current Situation
The couple admitted to making a “massive mistake” in building without planning permission but believe the punishment is disproportionate. They had even offered to donate the house to charity, but their offer was rejected. The family is currently staying in a bed and breakfast in Kells, Co. Meath, and are now homeless.
Council’s Action and Legal Background
Meath County Council initiated legal action against the couple in 2007. The Court of Appeal had previously dismissed their appeals, stating there was “no merit” to their claims. On Monday, March 16, 2026, the council secured possession of the Faughan Hill property following a High Court order.
Anticipated Demolition
Crowds gathered outside the property on Wednesday evening anticipating the demolition. While steel containers were initially placed to block access for machinery, Chris Murray expects the council to remove them to proceed with the demolition.