Pirate Ship Builder Faces Planning Permission Dilemma
Sam Griffiss, a 35-year-old former construction worker, has transformed his life by constructing a unique “off-grid paradise” in Bewdley, Worcestershire. After selling his house in July 2025, Griffiss purchased a £500 boat frame from eBay and dedicated himself to building a pirate ship named Daisy May, complete with a wood-fired sauna, a cabin on stilts, and a chicken coop. However, despite completing the project in January, he now faces the risk of losing his home due to potential planning permission issues.
A Dream Turned into Reality
Griffiss’s journey began with a desire to escape the high costs of living and reconnect with nature. Inspired by his love for the outdoors and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, he decided to invest his savings into creating a space that would not only serve as his home but also benefit the community. He had previously purchased the land for £28,000 with the intention of building a canoe shack, but bureaucratic hurdles delayed those plans.
After selling his house, Griffiss cleared the site with the help of a friend and constructed the pirate ship, believing that building a boat would exempt him from needing planning permission. Living entirely off-grid, he collects rainwater and utilizes generators and solar panels for power. His vision for the space includes establishing the Connection Club, a wellness hub aimed at helping the community reconnect with nature through various outdoor activities.
Griffiss has equipped the area with archery sets, fishing rods, and canoes, hoping to attract visitors of all ages. He emphasizes the importance of outdoor experiences, especially in a world increasingly dominated by screens. “There’s something for everyone,” he states, highlighting his commitment to fostering a love for nature among community members.
The Fight for Home
Despite his enthusiasm and community spirit, Griffiss is anxious about the future of his pirate ship. He reported his construction to the local council in January, but he is now urging officials to visit the site and see the project firsthand. He believes that if they witness the beauty of the location and the positive impact of his work, they might reconsider any potential demolition orders.
Griffiss expresses his determination to fight for his home, stating, “I’ve spent every bit of my money on this. I really need to get the planning permission so I can have an official address and make it a permanent home.” He hopes to leave a legacy for his daughter, who inspired him to embark on this adventure. “She will look back and remember it was her dad who built a pirate ship on the river,” he reflects.
As the Wyre Forest District Council conducts an “active investigation” into the property, Griffiss remains hopeful that his dream of creating a community hub will not be dashed. He invites passersby to stop and chat, eager to share his story and the vision behind the Daisy May.
