Celebrity gardener and television presenter Alan Titchmarsh has put his £4 million Hampshire home on the market, citing a desire to downsize as he approaches his later years. However, the decision coincides with contentious plans by developers to build 160 new houses just yards from his historic property, sparking a fierce local row.
The Decision to Downsize
Alan Titchmarsh, 76, admitted last week that he was selling his Grade II-listed Georgian manor house in Holybourne, near Alton, after 23 years. The TV star, who said he was "knocking on a bit", revealed the four-acre garden had become too much to manage. He and his wife Alison, 74, have found a smaller, modern property with about one-and-a-half acres, which is also closer to their daughters and grandchildren.
The couple purchased the stunning Manor Farm House, which dates from 1690, in 2002 for an undisclosed sum. They have carried out significant renovations and nurtured the expansive grounds, which now feature an impressive water feature. The property was launched on the market in September with a guide price of £3.95 million.
Controversial Development Plans Emerge
As Titchmarsh announced his move, it emerged that developers have submitted a proposal to construct a major new housing estate directly adjacent to his land. Redbrown, a farming and property business, lodged plans with East Hampshire District Council in July to build 160 homes on 15.6 hectares of open fields to the east of Holybourne.
The site is currently agricultural land with a play area, which would be relocated if the scheme proceeds. Planning documents show the development would be situated directly behind Titchmarsh's property. A decision from the council is expected next year.
Village Uproar Over 'Disproportionate' Scheme
The proposed development has ignited significant opposition within the picturesque village. Alton Town Council has formally objected, warning the project would make Holybourne a third larger and risk turning it "from a rural village to a suburb of Alton". Dozens of residents have also written letters of objection.
Key concerns raised by villagers include:
- Increased traffic and congestion on already busy village roads.
- A loss of valuable green space and harm to the rural character.
- Potential issues with flooding and drainage.
- The scale being "disproportionate" and fundamentally changing the area.
John Bound, 67, of the Holybourne Village Association, stated locals are not simply being 'nimbys' but believe the site is "highly problematic". Housekeeper Alison Hart, 63, echoed traffic fears, predicting "an absolute nightmare".
Titchmarsh Denies Link, Developers Stay Silent
Despite the timing, Alan Titchmarsh has insisted the proposed housing estate "has nothing to do" with his decision to sell. He told the Daily Mail the move was purely about downsizing and being closer to family. He added that the village would "remain a delightful place to live" regardless of the outcome of the application.
Developers Redbrown, who own the Froyle Estate, describe their plans as a "sensitively designed sustainable extension" inspired by the village's character, offering homes for families, first-time buyers, and older residents. The firm has declined to comment further on the local opposition.
As the planning process continues, the future of both a celebrity gardener's former home and the rural identity of Holybourne hang in the balance.
