Eric Clapton is locked in a planning dispute with neighbours who want to demolish their £2.3 million Surrey home and rebuild it with an elevated terrace. The 80-year-old musician has lodged an objection with the local council, arguing the development would invade his privacy.
The proposed new building in Ewhurst, Surrey, includes an open-plan kitchen, dining room, living room, snug, two studies, and a master bedroom with dressing room. Clapton claims the elevated terrace would overlook his swimming pool and cause “a significant and unacceptable invasion” of his privacy.
In a letter to the council, Clapton wrote: “As a public figure, my privacy is both a personal and professional necessity. The property is frequently used for private meetings and media-related work that requires discretion and seclusion. The proposed design, particularly the elevated terrace and extensive glazing, jeopardises this essential privacy.”
Clapton has lived in his Italian-style villa for over 50 years, describing it as his “sanctuary” and a “place of retreat, peace and privacy”. He wrote some of his most famous songs there, including Layla, inspired by his ex-wife Pattie Boyd. He also cited environmental concerns, saying he would hate to lose the “truly special, vibrant natural nature of our environment”.
Despite Clapton’s objections, council planning officers have recommended approval. The neighbours defended their application, stating the new home would provide “maximum energy efficiency” for their retirement and would not materially increase the built form, improving the character and views of the Green Belt.
