Great British Bake Off icon Paul Hollywood's dreams of a grand property expansion have been firmly put on ice after local authorities delivered a crushing blow to his ambitious renovation plans.
The celebrity baker, famed for his sharp critiques and soggy bottom verdicts, has found himself on the receiving end of a rejection after Sevenoaks District Council unanimously threw out his proposal to significantly alter his £1.2 million Kent residence, Sandway House.
A Design Deemed 'Inappropriate'
Council planners delivered a scathing assessment of Hollywood's vision, branding the proposed modern extensions and alterations as "inappropriate" for the cherished local area. The design was criticised for its "unduly prominent" appearance and failure to harmonise with the existing character of the property and its surroundings.
Officials concluded that the scale and design would result in "an unsatisfactory and incongruous form of development," dealing a final blow to Hollywood's aspirations for the property.
More Than Just a Pretty Facade
The objections extended beyond mere aesthetics. The council raised significant environmental concerns, particularly regarding the potential impact on protected trees surrounding the property. The proposed construction was seen as a direct threat to the root systems and overall health of these important natural features.
Despite Hollywood's team arguing that the project would enhance the building's functionality and modernise the estate, the council remained unconvinced, prioritising the preservation of the area's existing character and natural environment.
A Crumbling Investment?
This planning defeat adds a layer of complexity to Hollywood's property portfolio. He and his wife Melissa had previously been granted permission for a separate, smaller project on the site—a two-storey side extension. However, that consent has now lapsed, leaving the star's renovation plans in complete disarray.
Located in the sought-after village of Offham, near Maidstone, Sandway House represents a significant investment for the television personality. This latest planning hurdle underscores the challenges even celebrities face when navigating Britain's strict planning regulations and conservation priorities.
For now, it appears Paul Hollywood's dough will not be rising on this particular project anytime soon.
