Residents of Greatstone, Kent, have voiced their anger over a row of four new homes they describe as 'Lego-like' due to their bright pastel colours. The properties, clad in blue, pink, yellow and green metal panels, are being built on former council-owned wasteland in Coast Drive, near New Romney.
Locals claim the homes bear little resemblance to the muted designs originally approved by Folkestone and Hythe District Council in 2021. The site was sold in 2023, and the new owners secured permission for amended plans, but updated images were not released. Lee Dryden, 68, who moved to Greatstone three years ago, called the homes 'horrendous', saying he would have objected had he known the final look.
Clare, a behaviour analyst, described the colours as 'a bit garish' and expressed surprise at the multicoloured appearance. However, she acknowledged the builders have been 'fantastic'. Zalan Paksy, commodore of the Varne Boat Club, said the colours are 'interesting' and capture attention, adding that the area lacked such vibrancy before.
Anthony Ralph, founder of TG Designer Homes, defended the design, stating the homes represent a 'modern take on a traditional beach hut'. He said: 'We wanted to ensure they were unique in design... Who doesn't like Lego?' The council deemed the colour changes 'minor' and not harmful to the street scene. Originally planned as holiday lets, the properties are now standard homes, each featuring a two-car port, three bedrooms, and a top-floor open-plan kitchen with a terrace and hot tub. Work is expected to finish within four weeks.
