A FARMER who lives just 30 metres from one of the UK’s busiest motorways has revealed the worst things about his unusual location.
The man, in his 80s, has lived on the picturesque stretch of land in Rakewood, West Yorkshire, for decades – but says his quiet life has been destroyed by the M62.
Speaking about before it was built the farmer, who didn’t wish to be named, told Yorkshire Live: “It was nice and peaceful.”
He said he had unspoiled views in all directions before the colossal course was plonked down beside him.
At first when it was built, in the 1970’s, he said the road was relatively quiet – but soon the seven lanes were heaving with traffic.
He explained: "You don't get used to the noise.
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"When it's wet it sounds like you're on the seafront and when it's summer we have to shut the windows because of the dust.”
"It's like what's happened in a lot of places; they've done away with the countryside."
The M62 is home to several houses which are forced to put up with the constant traffic.
Most notably, Quirky Stott Hall Farm – an 18th century farmhouse perched between two of the motorway lanes.
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It shot to fame when its previous owner Ken Wild refused to move to make way for the M62.
The stubborn farmer, who died in 2004, had refused to sell his land that his father had bought in 1934 when plans for the motorway on the moors were approved.
The pair were part of mass protests from farmers over the motorway, which would cut through miles of rural land.
But their farm was saved because the land beneath the 15 acres which now lies between the carriageways was too steep – making it impossible to build all six lanes on.
Even today, for the thousands of drivers who thunder past the property, the farm provokes a sense of curiosity and intrigue.
It comes after residents who live under the M4 motorway said that they love it despite the constant roar of traffic.
The M4 runs on 45ft-high pillars over the town of Port Talbot – with its shadow looming over locals' back gardens.
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