A quiet mutiny is brewing at Acorn Drive in Wokingham as retirees clash with Home Group over a new "zero-tolerance" policy ordering the removal of personal items from communal areas.
The 130-home development, mostly occupied by retirees, has been told to clear everything from plant pots and doormats to the chairs residents use to socialise after a fire risk assessment.
Home-ownership operations manager Ruth Eagling defended the move: "It was highlighted as a potential risk in our most recent fire safety checks. We still want everyone to be able to enjoy the outdoor space safely... we ask that customers safely store [chairs] inside of their home when not in use."
Residents say the rules feel like a "solitary confinement" order and risk ruining community life.
Pat Latham, 84, emailed Home Group: "You actually made me weep upon receipt of your letter. Do you realise that you have now confined us all to not coming outside?"
"Getting old is no fun at all, and these very strict rules seem destined to remove any joy we may get from socialising."
Cheryl Talbot, 75, warned the physical burden of moving furniture harms neighbourly contact: "For many of us, especially those who live alone, sitting outside our doors provides important comfort and social interaction."
"Removing this entirely risks increasing isolation and loneliness."
Residents are also upset over memorial benches due to be removed, including one for Cheryl's late husband and one honouring Lorna Bunker's son who was killed in action.
With a 28-day deadline to clear belongings or face extra service charges, mood is defiant. Resident Brian Hughes, 74, said: "I think they've got a fight on their hands."
Ted O'Neill, Local Democracy Reporter
