Locals Oppose £1M Mega-Mansion Plan in Yarm’s Conservation Area

Residents in Yarm, North Yorkshire, are voicing strong opposition to plans to demolish a modest bungalow and construct a lavish £1 million “mega-mansion.” The proposed home would feature a gym, sauna, cinema, and six garages, leading to significant concerns among local inhabitants about the impact on their community.

The bungalow, which has remained vacant for four years and was previously owned by former Premier League player Patrick Bamford, was purchased by consultant Ian Shipley for £500,000. Shipley and his family intend to occupy the new property once it is completed. Plans submitted to Stockton Council include an expansive “leisure wing” that boasts a private gym and sauna, a double garage, and additional structures such as an office and children’s room.

Despite Shipley’s assertions that the design aligns with the Victorian and Georgian architecture prevalent in the area, local residents disagree. Many argue that the new construction would disrupt the character of the conservation area. One resident commented, “Every window at the front of my house will just be looking out at brick.” This sentiment reflects a broader fear that the mega-mansion will overshadow existing homes and obstruct views, prompting some to consider relocating.

Concerns extend beyond aesthetics. Neighbour Hannah Spencer expressed distress over potential loss of natural light, stating, “This loss of light is deeply distressing and would fundamentally change how I use and enjoy my garden.” Such objections have been formally presented to Stockton Council, highlighting the emotional and lifestyle impacts the new development could have on current residents.

The initial design featured a more extensive leisure wing, but feedback from the community has led to revisions. Visual representations released by Shipley’s agents, Pod Newcastle, illustrate modern open-plan interiors and high-end finishes, with claims that the house will “positively enhance the character of the conservation area.”

In a detailed objection submitted to the council, local resident Dr. Michal Przykucki acknowledged the potential quality of the proposed house but criticized its suitability for the area, stating, “It is pretty obvious that in its current form it is much closer to a country mansion than a house in a historic side street of a North Yorkshire market town.”

Adding another layer of complexity, archaeologists have raised concerns that the site may be a former Quaker burial ground. Tees Archaeology warned that if burials are present, the situation could become legally and archaeologically complicated.

Shipley has yet to respond publicly to the growing controversy surrounding the development. As discussions continue, the fate of the proposed mega-mansion remains uncertain, with local residents determined to safeguard the character of their community.