A local resident has expressed strong opposition to proposals put forward by David Beckham in the Cotswolds, describing the scheme as reminiscent of American beach resorts or a British seaside town.
The retired Manchester United and England midfielder, now knighted, along with his pop star wife, have owned their Oxfordshire property worth millions for approximately ten years.
The Great Tew residence sits on a large plot, with the converted barn featuring numerous upgrades such as a greenhouse structure, sizable water feature, subterranean storage for wine and an artificial grass sports area.
The famous couple have previously encountered friction with nearby households regarding modifications to the site, including proposals to convert an existing farm track into an alternative route for vehicles.
Now neighbouring residents have raised objections once more over intentions to fit decorative string lights surrounding the water feature at the property.
The plans concern an irregularly-shaped pond complete with a private islet situated at the residence in the village. Photography courtesy of Tom Wren / SWNS
One local man, James Worthington, submitted feedback on the planning submission stating that the water feature, referred to as a lake by the applicants, occupies an open countryside location surrounded by farmland near Maplewood Barn.
Yet the proposals bear closer resemblance to developments found in Florida than to the traditional character of Great Tew.
Hanging illumination along a suggested walkway and floodlights seem more appropriate for an amusement park than for this rural village.
He further questioned where the proposed wall-mounted fixtures would be placed, noting that if the homeowners desire suburban-style amenities, they could have settled in a different type of location altogether.
Mr Worthington also raised concerns about the potential impact on bats that use the area for feeding and travelling.
He suggested the illumination could prove bothersome to local residents and damaging to animal populations, warning that it might diminish the area’s rural character and interfere with views of the night sky.
