David and Victoria Beckham have faced a formal objection from a neighbour over plans to add a log store to their Grade-II listed country house in the Cotswolds, Oxfordshire. The proposed outbuilding, intended to store wood for a fireplace, would increase floor space by up to 28 square metres and include minor alterations to the layout of an already approved extension.
The objector accused the couple of “flying in the face” of the Government's Clean Air Strategy, arguing that burning wood is less eco-friendly than alternatives such as electric heat pumps. The neighbour stated: “I object to this application as it is a log store to keep wood to be burned dry. This flies in the face of the Government's Clean Air Strategy,” signing off with “save the planet”.
The application, submitted in April, seeks to vary a condition on existing planning permission granted for an outhouse used as an office and vehicle storage. The original permission required the building to provide an “attractive environment for nesting birds and bats”, including integrated bat and bird boxes, and to protect local wildlife under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
The Beckhams have faced previous planning disputes, including a 2020 approval for a kidney-shaped lake on the condition they plant hedgerows and trees and use bat-friendly lighting. Their £6.15 million estate near Chipping Norton already features a football pitch, outdoor pool, sauna, wine cellar, and plunge pool. The council is still considering the latest application.
