Planning delay for Hollywood couple's dream home (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Planning delay for Hollywood couple's dream home

CELEBRITY newly weds Sam Mendes and Kate Winslet face an uncertain wait to discover if their hopes of renovating a £3.5 million house in Church Westcote will get the green light.

The couple's plans to carry out a number of alterations to their Manor House home have been delayed following a decision by members to complete a site inspection.

Councillors decided the proposed work was not clear enough from the plans available to them and voted to see the house for themselves.

Among the alterations proposed for the building - the oldest part of which dates back to the 15th century - were to knock down ground floor walls and partitions, replace an 18th century staircase and construct a new porch and entrance.

Planning officers had recommended refusing the application, believing they would detrimentally alter the character and special interest of the Grade II listed building.

The meeting heard Westcote parish councillor David Hurford-Jones back the application made by the Academy Award winning director of films such as American Beauty and Road to Perdition.

Mr Hurford-Jones said: "We are talking about the improvements to the interior of a rundown house which is not intended to be a museum but a warm family home.

"It's crystal clear that this family would be a great asset to this village community.

"They not only have the intention but also the means to fully restore the present run down condition of this house.

"I urge you to accept this application which is without doubt in the wider interest."

Catherine Macdonald, one of the architects behind the designs, added: "If any member of the planning committee is in any doubt about approving the application a site visit would be encouraged."

Cllr Rod Hooper said: "It's probably one of the most beautiful listed buildings to come onto the market in this area in a long time and I think it's very important to preserve it as it is."

Cllr Sue Herdman called for a site inspection to be made. She said: "It's so seldom we get a house of this standard, so perhaps we can all have a look at it. It's essential to get it right."

Members of the committee will now join council planning officers on site next week.