Imagine living in the center of a bustling roundabout. For many, it sounds like an odd and perhaps inconvenient choice, but for the Howatson family of North Wales, it’s simply home. Nestled within the Denbigh bypass, their bungalow has stood its ground for decades, surrounded by traffic but filled with history, memories, and resilience. Despite numerous offers to sell, the family has refused to leave their one-of-a-kind home. Let’s explore their remarkable story and what it’s really like to live in such an unusual location.
The History Behind the Roundabout Home
The Howatsons’ connection to their home goes back 64 years. When they first moved in, the area was quiet, with no hint of the bustling bypass and roundabout that would later encircle their property.
- The Pre-Roundabout Era: Back then, their bungalow was just another house in a peaceful neighborhood. Life was simple, and the idea of a roundabout was far from anyone’s mind.
- The Big Change: In the late 1970s, plans were drawn up for the construction of a bypass and roundabout to ease local traffic. Instead of selling their home to make way for development, the Howatsons made a bold decision—they stayed put.
- Encircled by Traffic: By 1980, the bypass and roundabout were complete, with the Howatsons’ bungalow now at the very center. While their surroundings transformed, the family remained steadfast in their decision to keep their home.
Life in the Middle of a Roundabout
For Clwyd Howatson, now 64, life on a roundabout is all he’s ever known. While it might sound chaotic, the family has adapted to their unique circumstances.
1. No Neighbors, No Problem
One of the biggest perks? No neighbors to worry about.
“We don’t have to deal with neighbors,” Clwyd joked, highlighting one unexpected advantage of their location.
2. Managing Noise Levels
Despite what many might assume, the roundabout isn’t as noisy as it seems. Double-glazed windows keep much of the sound out, and traffic tends to peak only a few times a day. For the Howatsons, the noise is simply part of the background.
3. Navigating In and Out
Exiting the roundabout can be tricky, as drivers don’t expect a car to emerge from within it.
Clwyd explained, “We wait for quieter moments to leave. It’s not as hard as people think, though sometimes we get a few double-takes from drivers.”
The Challenges of Roundabout Living
While the Howatsons have embraced their unique home, it does come with its share of challenges.
1. Deliveries Can Be Confusing
For delivery drivers, locating a home “on the roundabout” can be a head-scratcher. Navigation systems often lead them astray, and many assume the address must be an error.
Clwyd shared a humorous anecdote: “Drivers usually think we’re nearby, not actually on the roundabout. We always have to redirect them.”
2. Early Days of Missteps
In the early days of the roundabout, there were some mishaps. Clwyd recalled how drivers occasionally went the wrong way around the roundabout, though thankfully, no major accidents occurred.
3. Unexpected Traffic Interactions
Even though living on a roundabout seems dangerous, the Howatsons have managed to avoid serious issues. The occasional awkward moment arises when other drivers let them merge into traffic, sometimes leading to near-misses with cars in adjacent lanes. But overall, their strategy of waiting for calm moments has kept things safe.
Why They Refuse to Leave
The Howatsons’ decision to stay in their home goes far beyond practicality. For them, it’s about history, connection, and a sense of belonging.
- Generations of Memories: Their bungalow has been home to generations of Howatsons, making it more than just a house.
- Rooted in History: The family cherishes the history tied to their home. Clwyd said, “We’ve been here for generations and plan to stay. This house is part of who we are.”
- Unwavering Resilience: Despite numerous offers to sell, the Howatsons remain steadfast, valuing their home’s sentimental worth over any financial gain.
A Home Unlike Any Other
The Howatsons’ bungalow is a testament to resilience and adaptability. While many might view their situation as unconventional or even inconvenient, the family sees it as life as usual. Their story is a reminder that home is more about the people and memories it holds than its location.
1. A Symbol of Stability
In a world that constantly changes, the Howatsons’ decision to stay represents a kind of stability and commitment that’s increasingly rare.
2. A Community Curiosity
Their home has become something of a local landmark. Visitors often ask questions about how they navigate life on a roundabout, and the family’s humorous answers add to their charm.
3. Inspiration for Unconventional Living
Would you consider living in a place as unique as this? For the Howatsons, it’s not just a choice—it’s a lifestyle that suits them perfectly.
Conclusion: A Unique Lifestyle Built on Family and History
Living in the middle of a roundabout might seem unimaginable to some, but for the Howatsons, it’s a cherished way of life. Their bungalow, steeped in history and filled with family memories, stands as a symbol of their resilience and determination. They’ve proven that even the most unconventional circumstances can become a source of comfort, pride, and identity.
While their story might spark curiosity or even admiration, for the Howatsons, it’s just home. And for them, there’s no place they’d rather be.
