King Charles' cherished view of wildflower meadows near his Highgrove House residence is under threat from plans to build 135 new homes, local residents have claimed. The fields between Bath Road and Longfurlong Lane near Tetbury, Gloucestershire, have been described as a nature lover's paradise, with the King himself having planted some of the hedges in the area. However, this wildlife utopia neighbouring the royal residence is now at risk after being targeted by developer Miller Homes.
Local Opposition and Concerns
The proposed housing development has sparked fury among locals who fear it will destroy the beloved wildflower meadows. They have accused developers of profiteering, suggesting they will charge a premium for homes marketed as being 'the King's neighbour'. Conservative councillor Laura Hall-Wilson stated she has not spoken to a single resident who supports the scheme, describing opposition as a 'blanket no'. She accused developers of a cynical bid to build homes and then hike prices under the banner of being a royal neighbour.
Locals also fear the plans could lead to unintended confrontations with armed security staff, given the site's proximity to Highgrove. Peter Martin, a former district councillor and chairman of the Longfurlong Greenfields Association (LGA), noted that the high security zone is just one field away, no more than 150 metres from the proposed development. He expressed concerns about accidental conflicts with the public, as the area is patrolled by armed officers.
Environmental and Heritage Impact
The privately owned fields are a priority conservation habitat within the Cotswold National Landscape and an important heritage setting on the southern approach to the historic town of Tetbury. They do not feature in the local plan, and residents believe developers are hiding behind the guise of fulfilling housing need, despite other more suitable sites in the town. Cllr Hall-Wilson emphasised that the site is open countryside, with deep shades of green, old Cotswold stone walls, barns, and trees that have been there for a long time.
Peter Martin highlighted the ecological value of the fields, which burst with wild flowers and are home to barn owls and other wildlife. He accused developers of 'carpet bombing' the countryside with housing, showing disrespect to the town, community, and nature.
Security and Privacy Issues
Residents raised concerns about the King's privacy, which locals have guarded for years. Peter Martin noted that the King comes to Highgrove to escape London and enjoy rural nature, and has personally laid three of the hedges in the fields. He argued that the King's physical effort to create that landscape should be protected for everyone. Cllr Hall-Wilson added that while the King should not have special say over land use, the relationship between the town and the monarch is good, and residents are respectful of his privacy.
Chris Giles, LGA Secretary, echoed concerns about security for the Royal household. Other locals criticised the plans as 'nonsense' that should be 'thrown out', citing the peaceful nature of the town and underfunded local amenities.
Developer's Response
A Miller Homes spokesperson said: 'Proposals for new, sustainable housing in this part of Gloucestershire have already included positive communication with local councillors, and we will share further information on plans for this land, to engage with the community, in the near future.' The Daily Mail has approached Buckingham Palace for comment.
