Residents near Chesil Cliff House, famously dubbed ‘The Lighthouse’ and labelled one of Grand Designs' saddest stories, have breathed a collective sigh of relief as the property has finally sold after over a decade of turmoil.
The striking lighthouse-inspired home overlooking Saunton Sands on Devon’s coastline gained notoriety through Channel 4’s Grand Designs, where the lengthy 12-year build left former owner Edward Short struggling under a £7 million debt and ended his family life.
For years, the towering structure stood as a controversial fixture—a source of local frustration and heartache. Many residents viewed the unfinished and deteriorating property as an eyesore that clashed with the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
READ MORE: Historic Somerset Pub Reopens Following Stunning Transformation
READ MORE: Tributes Paid to Former Bath Journalist Jean Holmes Finlayson, Defender of Treasured Local Green Space
Grace, a nearby resident, shared her disappointment: “It’s been standing there empty for so long, I’ve wondered what the future holds for it. I don’t like it. When Edward left it, it was a mess right on the water. You can see it all the way from Baggy Point, and it’s not pleasant to look at.”
At present, the house remains wrapped in scaffolding, with many windows blown out and the ravages of sea spray showing severe wear. Locals express relief now that the sale will likely prevent the structure from crumbling into the sea.
“It’s good to know someone’s going to live in it. It was practically a ruin on the point,” said one resident. “It was getting so bad with holes in the walls; it was starting to spoil the area.”
Speculation about the new owner is rampant, with some fearing the house may become just another holiday retreat rather than a cherished home. Gillian Byrom, from nearby Georgeham, remarked, “I hope it won’t be a holiday home. It needs careful upkeep and doesn’t really suit the natural scenery.”
Jess, who works at Ralph’s surf shop, described the house as “just a husk on the side of the cliff,” emphasizing how out of place it looks on the idyllic coastline.
Despite mixed feelings, some locals like Rob Tucker, a former member of the Croyde Parish Council, see potential for the property. “I love the design—it’s different. But it was getting dilapidated and needed attention. It could be iconic,” he said. “I’m really pleased someone’s going to care for it. It has so much potential.”
The 2019 Grand Designs episode laid bare the difficult reality behind the build, showing the severe personal toll on Edward Short, whose strained relationship with his wife Hazel ended amid the ordeal. The entire community shared in the sadness surrounding the project’s hardships.
Rob reflected, “It was a dreadful shame for everyone involved. I didn’t enjoy watching that episode.” Gillian agreed: “It was a very sad story. I feel for the family. I’m glad at last something positive will come from it.”
With the sale complete, locals hope the new chapter for Chesil Cliff House will bring restoration and harmony to the once divisive landmark.