Boundary disputes - a clash of wills or a Shakespearean tragedy?

Abstract

Boundary disputes between adjoining owners and the issue of boundary repair and resolution have been the subject of dissertations for doctorates’ in philosophy to social commentary by Shakespeare. Lord Hoffmann in the House of Lords appeal court during summation in Alan Wibberley Building Limited v. Insley 1999 eloquently expressed the folly of litigation over boundary disputes when he said, 'Feelings run high and disproportionate amounts of money are spent. Claims to small and valueless pieces of land are pressed with the zeal of Fortinbras's army.'