A GROUP of residents have told how they’ve been banned from sitting outside their homes by their housing association.

People living at Chatham Court, in Station Road, claim they were ordered to stop gathering at their usual spot following complaints by one of their neighbours.

However, Nottingham City Homes, which owns the flats, say they are still allowed to meet on the nearby area of grass and can use furniture as long as it isn't left outside.

Martin Phillips, who along with his wife Susan used to regularly meet outside with as many as eight other women, said he felt as though they were being "punished".

“There’s usually between six and 10 of us, we used to meet up every day, some were residents and some were people who had dropped their kids at school," the 65-year-old told Nottinghamshire Live.

The meetings began before Covid, however the group said meeting outdoors was particularly important whilst restrictions were in place.

They added that the cover near their homes also helped during the winter months.

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"One of our neighbours took offence to it. It's not like it's antisocial behaviour – it's the opposite," continued Mr Phillips

"I've tried to negotiate, but we're not allowed to sit outside our mdoors. They said if we carried on they would take action against us."

The residents deny that they were blocking the pavement for wheelchair and pushchair users, insisting they leave enough space.

"The neighbour says she doesn't feel comfortable walking through the group, but we move out the way. We're being punished for the attitude of one person."

He added the group was close-knit, throwing parties in the past and even going on holiday together.

"The kids used to come past and wave at us," continued Mr Phillips.

"We didn't come looking for trouble, we just wanted to enjoy ourselves."

Marian Joyce, 82, said that the rule was "beyond belief".

"It was lovely until this happened, but we haven't got a say in it."

A Nottingham City Homes spokesperson said: “We understand the importance of having a close-knit community and residents have told us meeting up is important to them.

“However, we have asked residents to congregate only on the grassed area outside of their homes. Previously they were blocking the footpath for wheelchair and pushchair users.

"We have also advised them to take home any furniture they bring outside, so that other people can use the public space. We would also remind tenants to be mindful of noise levels so they don’t disturb other residents.”

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