David and Victoria Beckham are embroiled in a fresh planning dispute after eagle-eyed neighbours spotted dramatic changes to their sprawling Cotswolds estate that appeared in their recent Netflix documentary.
The Great Garden Transformation
The celebrity couple, who purchased their £6 million Oxfordshire property in 2016, have reportedly created what appears to be an artificial beach and substantial lake within their extensive grounds. The transformations came to light when the Beckhams' Netflix series provided an intimate look at their family life and home.
Local residents have expressed their concerns about the scale of development, questioning whether proper planning permissions were obtained for the significant alterations to the landscape.
Neighbourhood Backlash
Incensed neighbours have raised objections to what they describe as "sprawling" additions to the Beckhams' already impressive estate. The artificial beach feature, complete with sand and decking, and the newly created lake have particularly drawn attention and criticism from those living nearby.
One local resident, speaking anonymously, stated: "We were shocked to see the extent of the development when watching the documentary. It raises serious questions about whether the proper procedures were followed."
Previous Planning Controversies
This isn't the first time the Beckhams have faced planning disputes at their Cotswolds retreat. The couple previously encountered opposition from neighbours and local authorities over various developments on the property, including:
- Substantial extensions to the main house
- Outbuilding constructions
- Landscaping works affecting the rural character of the area
The latest revelations from the Netflix documentary have reignited concerns among the local community about the scale and nature of development at the celebrity-owned property.
Netflix's Unintentional Revelation
The streaming giant's documentary, intended to showcase the Beckhams' family life and career achievements, has inadvertently become the source of the couple's latest planning headache. Scenes filmed within the property's grounds clearly show the extensive garden transformations that have now become the subject of local scrutiny.
Planning experts suggest that significant alterations to landscaping, especially those involving water features and major earthworks, typically require planning permission from local authorities.
What Comes Next?
Local planning authorities are expected to review the situation following the concerns raised by neighbours. The Beckhams may face requirements to submit retrospective planning applications or, in a worst-case scenario, could be ordered to reverse some of the changes made to the property.
The couple's representatives have yet to comment publicly on the latest planning controversy surrounding their Cotswolds mansion.
