Former US talk show host Ellen DeGeneres has submitted detailed planning proposals to construct horse stables at her flood-affected £22 million Cotswolds residence, with the intention of establishing it as a permanent home. DeGeneres and her partner, Portia De Rossi, originally purchased Kitesbridge Farm near Burford for £15 million in 2024, subsequently investing an estimated £7.5 million in extensive renovations to both the exterior and interior of the property.
From Temporary Move to Long-Term Ambition
Despite the significant renovation efforts, the couple relocated after less than a month of occupancy to find a more suitable location that could accommodate Portia's deep passion for equestrian activities. The property was listed for sale in July of last year, but it failed to attract a buyer and was further hampered by recurring flooding incidents from the River Windrush, which flows through the 43-acre site.
Reports had indicated that a sale was imminent after DeGeneres allegedly reduced the asking price by £4.5 million from the original £22 million, with the house being withdrawn from the market as part of the sale conditions. However, newly released planning documents from Friday reveal a shift in strategy, as the couple now seeks to transform the estate into their long-term residence, contingent upon approval for the new stables.
Planning Application Details
In a design and access statement submitted to West Oxfordshire District Council, representatives for DeGeneres and De Rossi explained, "The applicants carried out a successful renovation of the house last year and wish to make this their long term home. One of their passions is horses and although the building group is large, there is no provision for horses or for their training and bringing up. This application seeks to address this in as sensitive a way as possible."
The full planning application proposes demolishing an existing agricultural building and replacing it with stables designed in a vernacular style, featuring stone construction and a pitched tile roof to blend seamlessly with the surrounding structures. The proposed building would include two loose boxes and storage space for equestrian equipment, all within a single, cohesive structure.
Design Considerations and Community Impact
Drawings illustrate that the stable building has been carefully positioned to align with adjacent barns, creating a harmonious visual approach. The application notes that alternatives, such as a larger American barn style or a U-shaped byre range, were considered but rejected due to concerns over dominating the landscape or lacking practicality.
The statement emphasizes, "There are no nearby neighbours and thus no impact on residential amenity that would result from the provision of stabling." It further argues that the proposed stone building would enhance the aesthetic coherence of the property cluster compared to the current agricultural shed, which is slated for demolition.
Equestrian Needs Driving the Proposal
DeGeneres has previously highlighted the necessity for a home with equestrian facilities, stating, "When we decided to live here full time, we knew that Portia couldn't live without her horses. We needed a home that had a horse facility and pastures for them." The planning application categorizes the couple as horse owners requiring dedicated stabling for their animals.
Additional features of the proposed stable include a first-floor hayloft or storage area, accessed by tallet steps, though this is noted as secondary to the main application. The representatives have urged the council to approve the application promptly, concluding that the design minimizes visual impact and integrates well with the existing buildings.
Next Steps and Decision Timeline
As of now, no public comments or representations have been received regarding the application. The decision will be made by West Oxfordshire District Council at a future date, determining whether DeGeneres and De Rossi can proceed with their plans to establish a long-term equestrian-friendly home in the Cotswolds.
