Plans filed for extensive growth of Simon Cowell's grand farmhouse in the Cotswolds region
In the picturesque Cotswolds, music mogul Simon Cowell has put forward a planning application for a 793-square-foot outhouse on his £8 million Grade II-listed property. However, the proposed extension faces several hurdles due to the building's listed status and its location within a conservation area.
The property, which was once a 16th-century farmhouse, is subject to strict regulations that protect buildings of historical or architectural significance. Any alterations that could affect the character or appearance of the property are restricted, making the approval process complex and subject to detailed scrutiny.
Being in a conservation area also adds to the challenges. The surroundings have special architectural or historical interest, and changes must preserve or enhance the area's character. This means that the design, size, materials, and placement of new structures like an outhouse are all carefully considered.
The proposed extension, intended for entertaining guests and hosting family gatherings, will be connected to the existing farmhouse by a flat-roofed linking extension. To meet conservation standards, the structure must be sympathetic in scale, appearance, and materials to the existing property and local environment.
Local materials will be used to ensure the new addition blends with the original building, aiming to create a safe haven for Cowell's family while maintaining the property's historical charm. The proposed extension could transform the current home into a larger, more functional space, providing a games room for Cowell's children and additional living areas for the family.
Cowell, who previously expressed his desire for privacy and safety, has stated that the countryside offers the peace and security his family needs after living in the city for so long. The planning application is currently being considered by West Oxfordshire District Council, with a decision expected soon.
[1] The Guardian, "Simon Cowell plans 793 square foot outhouse on £8m Grade II listed property in the Cotswolds," 2022. [3] Planning Portal, "Planning permission for listed buildings," 2022.
- To meet conservation standards, the proposed design for Simon Cowell's outhouse extension must be sympathetic in scale, appearance, and materials to the existing 16th-century farmhouse and its local environment, as per the strict regulations set for historical or architectural significant buildings.
- The new addition to Cowell's home, planned for entertaining guests and hosting family gatherings, will be connected to the existing farmhouse by a flat-roofed linking extension, aiming to blend seamlessly with the home's lifestyle and the home-and-garden aesthetic.
- The use of local materials in the construction of the proposed extension is intended to ensure the new addition blends with the original building, maintaining the historical charm while providing a safe haven for Cowell's family.
- Once approved, the extension could transform Cowell's current home into a larger, functional space, offering additional living areas and potentially a games room for his children, enhancing their home-improvement efforts.
- While the proposal faces hurdles due to the building's listed status and conservation area location, Cowell's application is currently being considered by West Oxfordshire District Council, with a decision expected soon, hoping to realize his vision for a peaceful and secure home-and-garden life.
