Ricky Gervais has been warned that his planned £5 million mansion on the River Thames in Marlow, Buckinghamshire, poses a risk of flooding that could lead to 'loss of life'. The Environment Agency raised concerns over the development, which would replace his current three-bedroom home that has flooded multiple times.
The agency stated that flood depths could exceed one and a half metres, posing a danger to the public and emergency services without proper evacuation procedures. A flood risk assessment commissioned by Gervais acknowledged the danger but said a warning and evacuation plan would be prepared for the comedian and his partner, Jane Fallon.
Gervais plans to demolish the existing house and build a neo-Georgian mansion with a tennis court, pond, home gym, and master suite. The Environment Agency noted that safe access from the site to an area outside the floodplain would not be available during a design flood event, but the house would be elevated to create a safe haven.
The initial plans were refused in February due to flood and climate change concerns. Revised plans submitted in September include raising the ground floor and incorporating 'floodable voids'. The project has also been delayed by the discovery of a protected bat colony in the loft, requiring a special license and mitigation strategy.
Gervais bought the riverside property in 2014 for £2.75 million. He also owns a £14.5 million home in Hampstead, which he purchased last year, and has admitted he may need to move again due to stairs as he ages.
