Residents in Aldington Fear Holiday Let at Paul O’Grady’s Former Home Will Bring Constant Traffic and Light Pollution to Their Quiet Village

Angry residents are voicing their concerns about a new holiday let proposal for Paul O’Grady’s former home.

The plan to convert a former security office on the beloved TV star’s estate in Aldington, Kent, into a holiday rental has sparked significant opposition from locals.

This proposal was submitted by O’Grady’s widower, Andre Portasio, after his previous attempts to expand the building into a larger house were rejected by planning officials at Ashford Borough Council (ABC).

Peter Ashenden, one of the villagers, expressed his worries on the ABC planning portal.

He pointed out that a holiday let could bring a “constant stream” of unfamiliar drivers to the area, which has a tricky access point and is prone to near-misses.

He warned that the location isn’t safe for pedestrians or for cars trying to navigate out of the property.

Sheila Garrard also voiced her disapproval, calling the proposal “inappropriate.”

She argued that allowing this development would set a precedent for future inappropriate projects in the countryside.

Garrard is particularly concerned about potential light pollution, as the plans include extensive glazing on the south-facing side of the building.

She fears that the light could be visible from afar, even from Romney Marsh.

Parish Council’s Stance

The Aldington and Bonnington Parish Council has joined the chorus of dissent, criticizing the design for failing to preserve the character and tranquility of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Their objection reflects broader concerns about how the project might impact the rural landscape.

Previous and Current Plans

The new proposal suggests transforming the building into a one-bedroom holiday let with an en-suite bathroom.

This is a shift from earlier plans, where consultants had recommended using the space as a residential property rather than a commercial one, citing the area’s already ample accommodation options.

ABC had previously dismissed the residential expansion plans, deeming them an “incongruous and intrusive feature” for the site.

Future Developments

A decision on the latest holiday let proposal is expected by the end of August.

Meanwhile, O’Grady, who passed away in March last year at the age of 67, left behind a substantial estate valued at £15.5 million, including a significant donation to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.

The property in question, Knoll Hill, was purchased by O’Grady in 1999 for £650,000 and features a main house with six bedrooms, a swimming pool, and 56 acres of land, including woodland.

TDPel Media

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