Sarah Beeny, the well-known property expert famous for Channel 4’s Property Ladder, is at the centre of a heated planning dispute concerning her ambitious renovation project in Somerset. The New Life in the Country star and her husband, Graham Swift, purchased a 1970s farmhouse in Stoney Stoke in 2018, aiming to transform it into a grand residence often dubbed a ‘mini-Downton Abbey’. However, their plans have sparked significant local backlash.
Right from the outset, neighbours voiced strong objections. One described the proposed development as “irresponsible and downright dangerous,” while another labelled it “extremely foolish.” Central to the concerns is a narrow track linking the property to a nearby road known for frequent traffic accidents. Paul Williams, a local resident for 35 years, shared: “I’ve witnessed dozens of collisions on this stretch, some even crashing through my hedge. Adding another entrance or exit here is reckless.”
Community frustration escalated when Sarah altered her original blueprint. Instead of demolishing the existing farmhouse as initially approved, she chose to extend it. This decision prompted further outcry. Kevin Flint, another local, commented: “She was only granted permission on the condition that the old house was demolished. Now that she’s refurbished it, it’s caused real bad feelings in our village. It feels like she thinks she can ignore the rules and community sentiment, but that won’t happen.”
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Following the change, Sarah’s planning consultants, Avalon Planning & Heritage, submitted a retrospective application to Somerset Council. This request was rejected, and negotiations have since stalled. Avalon Planning contends that while the revised plans deviate from the original approval, they still align with the overall spirit of the development rules. They argue that retaining the farmhouse, alongside converting four rather than five agricultural barns, still keeps the total number of dwellings within the allotted six.
Ecological considerations also play a key role. Bats, specifically Serotine bats, have been found nesting in the farmhouse roof. According to Avalon, demolishing the building would breach the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, posing significant environmental harm. They asserted: “Wholesale demolition of the farmhouse would destroy the Serotine bat roost, causing greater environmental impact than our current proposals.”
Additionally, Avalon highlights sustainability benefits, noting that preserving the farmhouse offers up to a 36% reduction in whole life carbon emissions compared to demolition and rebuilding.
Despite ongoing negotiations and renewed permissions for associated barn conversions until March 2029, the planning saga remains unresolved. Local opposition is vocal, and Sarah Beeny’s team has yet to respond publicly to the controversy.