Will sue to avoid goblins

Håkon Robertsen has refused to tear down a condemned barn for fear of
reprisals from 'little people' and is ready to sue local authorities
to protect the building.

Robertsen continues to resist a local order to tear down the derelict
structure, and is currently being fined NOK 300 (USD 47.50) a day
until he flattens the barn. Local authorities first ordered the barn
demolished in February 2005 after complaints from Robertsen's
neighbors and a new order was passed this autumn.

Robertsen fears the consequences of tearing the building down.

"I don't believe in ghosts, but underworld creatures have taken up
residence in the building," Robertsen told newspaper Nordlys,
referring to a term used for the fairies and goblins of Norwegian
folklore.

Robertsen would not go into detail about his experiences, but said he
was convinced that to comply with the order would have serious
consequences for his life and health.

"A while back I removed the top of the building and that is an
experience I will not repeat," he said, and points out that the barn
is built on an old Viking site.

He has offered to build a solid fence around the ramshackle building
so that it no longer poses a danger to anyone.

The head of the local building policy department, Mette Mohåg, told
Nordlys that there was as yet no deadlock in the matter.

(Aftenposten English Web Desk/NTB)

http://www.aftenposten.no/english/local/article1550511.ece