High Court fight of millionaire neighbours

A dispute between millionaire neighbours that has been likened to a "major commercial action" reached the High Court today.

Two QCs and their lawyers outlined the case which, the judge heard, has "got completely out of hand".

The row began when company director Paul Rayden and his wife, Claire, devised plans to extend their ?3 million home in St John's Wood in October 2001.

Their neighbour, US lawyer George Perlman, now says the work and materials used amount to an "actionable trespass to the driveway" of his ?4 million home. He is seeking an injunction to demolish part of the extension, and damages for distress.

Michael Driscoll QC, for Mr Perlman, told Mr Justice Patten that after buying their home the Raydens started building a family room in the garden. They did not have planning permission and had to demolish the room, which they want to rebuild.

Mr Driscoll said Mr Perlman was not shown the new plans until after the Raydens signed a contract with builders. "They had not asked for or obtained his consent," he said.

Derek Wood QC, for the Raydens, said Mr Perlman began to take exception after complaining about a skip in a shared drive. He said Mr Perlman had " expressly or impliedly" agreed the plans in a meeting in November 2001.

The hearing continues.