Hollywood Hardman's Rural Plans Face Wildlife Hurdle
Vinnie Jones, the renowned actor and former Premier League footballer, has encountered a significant obstacle in his ambition to establish a country shooting retreat. His proposal to convert farm buildings on his West Sussex estate into accommodation for shooting events is being fiercely contested by wildlife officials and local residents, primarily over concerns for a population of protected barn owls.
Feathered Residents Scupper Development
The core of the dispute lies with the protected status of barn owls under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. This legislation makes it illegal to intentionally take, damage, or destroy the nest of a barn owl while it is in use. Officials from the local wildlife trust have formally objected to the planning application, stating they are "concerned that the proposed development would result in disturbance" to these species.
Their concerns are twofold: the initial disruption caused by construction work and the long-term impact of having the site occupied. The plan involves accommodating up to 14 clients year-round, with additional daily visits from caterers, cleaners, and other service staff. A trust conservation officer emphasised that this constant human activity would be detrimental to the nesting birds.
Local Outcry and Expert Disagreement
The opposition does not stop with the wildlife trust. Neighbours of the estate have also voiced strong objections. One local stated the plans "feel totally inappropriate for such a rural site" and would negatively impact the local environment. Another pointed to the significant historical declines in the UK barn owl population, arguing that the proposed mitigation measures fall short of providing adequate protection against long-term damage.
However, the project's representatives are pushing back. Douglas Briggs, the architect acting for Jones, criticised the wildlife trust's judgement. He claimed it was based on false assumptions and fear-mongering, noting that the trust officials had not demonstrated their professional qualifications. Briggs also revealed that an independent barn owl expert had already surveyed the site and provided advice on mitigation strategies for both the construction phase and the long-term breeding success of the owls.
A Clash of Countryside Visions
This situation presents a clash between two different views of the British countryside. Vinnie Jones, 60, is no stranger to rural life. His 2023 Disney+ series, Vinnie Jones in the Country, saw him manage 2,000 acres of farmland. He has previously described himself as "a British conservationist" aiming to protect a traditional way of life. In a 2017 interview, he fondly recalled childhood game shoots, describing a perfect day involving shooting pigeons and fox lamping.
This personal history is now at odds with the modern priorities of species conservation. The final decision rests with the South Downs National Park Authority, which will weigh the proposed economic activity against the potential harm to a protected species. The authority is expected to make its ruling in due course.
