Cate Blanchett Withdraws Plans for Controversial Cornwall Eco-Home Amid Local Backlash

Hollywood star Cate Blanchett and her husband, playwright Andrew Upton, have hit pause on their ambitious eco-home project in Mawgan Porth, Cornwall. The couple recently withdrew their planning application to create a new access and parking area for their £1.6 million property after facing a wave of objections from neighbors.

The Oscar-winning actress’s project initially envisioned as a sustainable architectural statement, has sparked heated debates among locals, with some accusing the couple of disrupting the peace and compromising the area’s natural beauty.

A Vision of Sustainability Meets Local Frustration

Cate Blanchett’s eco-home journey began with the demolition of the original structure, making way for a five-bedroom sustainable house. The couple’s recent application sought to repurpose a neighboring plot into a parking area for four cars, which they argued was essential for the property’s functionality.

However, the proposal faced pushback from locals, who expressed concerns about noise, environmental impact, and the potential transformation of Mawgan Porth into a so-called “Hollywood-on-sea.”

Holiday let owner Karen Burgess, one of the most vocal critics, claimed that construction noise from the site disrupted family vacations, stating, “There has already been a total disregard for the noise that has destroyed the family holidays of all my guests.”

Architects Respond: “Mistaken Identity”

Watershed, the architects behind the project, denied allegations of excessive noise during peak holiday seasons. In a detailed response, they asserted, “She [Burgess] cannot be referring to our client’s property… Once again, our client’s property has been mistaken for other works going on in Mawgan Porth.”

The firm emphasized its commitment to maintaining communication with neighbors, adding that their contractor was readily available to address any concerns from the local community.

Environmental Concerns Stir Debate

Another neighbor, Helen John, raised objections about the environmental implications of the project, accusing the couple of attempting to “erode an environmentally important piece of land.”

Planning agents for Cate Blanchett countered these claims, highlighting that only 14% of the meadow would be affected, with 86% preserved as green space. They also argued that the parking area was strategically positioned to minimize visibility and environmental disruption.

A History of Tensions in Mawgan Porth

This isn’t the first time construction in Mawgan Porth has sparked controversy. The picturesque Cornish village, known for its stunning coastal views, has seen growing development pressure as affluent buyers transform quaint cottages into luxury properties.

Cate Blanchett’s project became a flashpoint for these tensions, with some residents perceiving it as a symbol of changing times and the erosion of local charm.

Future Plans Remain Unclear

While the application for the new access has been withdrawn, it is uncertain whether Cate Blanchett and Upton will revise and resubmit their proposal. Cornwall Council’s planning portal confirmed the withdrawal but did not provide further details.

For now, the couple’s vision for a sustainable Cornish retreat hangs in the balance, with their next move likely to attract significant scrutiny.

For the latest posts visit The Celebrity Gossips

Post Views: 12

Cate Blanchett’s Eco-Home Plans Halted After Local Outcry