Acclaimed British actor Timothy Spall, renowned for his roles in The King's Speech and Mr. Turner, has launched a High Court lawsuit against Westminster City Council following a catastrophic renovation project that left his £5 million London home severely damaged and 'uninhabitable'.
The actor and his wife, Shane, purchased the substantial Maida Vale property in 2018 with plans to transform it into their dream family home. The project, which involved extensive excavation and underpinning works, required approval from the council's building control team.
A Dream Home Turned Nightmare
According to court documents, the Spalls claim that council surveyors failed in their statutory duty by negligently approving and inspecting dangerous structural work. The alleged failures include:
- Approving excavation works that dangerously undermined the foundations of neighbouring properties
- Failing to identify critical errors in the structural design
- Not ensuring proper support was in place during construction
- Granting completion certificates for work that was fundamentally unsafe
The 'Downton Shabby' Aftermath
The result, as described by the couple, is a home that has been dubbed 'Downton Shabby' – a play on the actor's connection to the period drama Downton Abbey. The property has been left with severe structural issues, including cracks, unstable walls, and significant water damage, rendering it unsafe for occupation.
The emotional and financial toll has been substantial. The Spalls have been unable to live in their home for several years while facing enormous repair costs estimated to run into millions of pounds. They are now seeking substantial damages from the council to cover the cost of rectifying the extensive damage.
Westminster Council's Response
A spokesperson for Westminster City Council stated: 'We are aware of the claim and are currently considering it. It would be inappropriate to comment further while legal proceedings are ongoing.'
The case highlights the critical importance of proper oversight in major building projects and serves as a cautionary tale for homeowners undertaking significant renovations, particularly in London's complex property landscape.
