Lowestoft couple hope war over 'Aggro Alley' path will end

But neighbourly relations at Pump Alley, the controversial Pakefield thoroughfare, could now be back on track.

The dispute broke out after Samantha and Nolan Lincoln put up a gate across the path, which runs through a corner of their driveway.

The retired couple said they did so because they were concerned that cyclists and dog walkers were straying into their property, and that they were concerned about antisocial behaviour spilling into their garden.

Mr and Mrs Lincoln moved to Pakefield Street in May 2022 to enjoy retirement by the sea, but conflicts with neighbours have made their move hell (pictured before the pillar was removed and a new look Pump Alley created) they now hope for peace (Image: Denise Bradley)

They then started to lock the gate at night, creating a dead end.

The move infuriated neighbours, including brothers Frank and Peter Robinson, who live 200 metres away at the far end of the path.

They regularly used the alleyway to walk their dog on the nearby beach.

READ MORE: Aggro over Pump Alley... Neighbours at war over footpath

Now, however, a path through the discord seems to have been found.

The Lincolns have fenced off an area at the edge of their driveway for the alleyway, meaning walkers do not have to cut across their property.

They have removed the controversial gate, as well as a concrete pillar, to create a more direct route for walkers.

The Lincolns have liaised with Suffolk County Council, which has responsibility for footpaths, and are awaiting final approval for the changes. 

On the left is the gate which blocked access, and on the right is the now clear path:

Samantha Lincoln outside of her home on Pakefield Street, gesturing to new look Pump Alley, picture taken from the street (Image: Bruno Brown)

READ MORE: Neighbours at war at landmark location on Norfolk Broads

The changes have cost the couple several thousand pounds.

"It's not what I wanted to spend my pension on," Mr Lincoln said.

"But now it is finished and access is clear, I hope we can all live in harmony."

Mrs Lincoln added: "We really hope that this is the end now, we just want to get on with our lives aggro-free - the end of the Aggro Alley. It has been draining.

"We want people to enjoy the elegance of the walkway, as a lot of thought and effort has gone into getting it aesthetically pleasing.

"We followed all the criteria the council stated in writing. It is one metre wide and wholly accessible from both ends, and our drive is separate."

The view of the 200-metre Pump Alley, pictured from Mr and Mrs Lincoln's home towards London Road South (Image: bruno)