🌿 Garden of Discontent: Owner of a Grand Welsh Mansion Clashes with Council 🚫
In the picturesque village of Grosmont near Abergavenny, the owner of an 11-bedroom historic mansion has found himself in a hot spot with local authorities. Andrew Blowers, the proud owner of the Grade-II listed Great Campston Manor, is in a bit of a pickle for building a glitzy greenhouse on his sprawling 200-acre estate without securing the necessary permissions. 😬
Desperate to create a luxurious haven complete with a swimming pool and gym inside the manor, Blowers submitted a fresh planning application in April 2025. However, when the council uncovered the unauthorised greenhouse, things turned a tad frosty. The council suggested he dismantle the structure, but Blowers stood his ground, refusing to budge.
After some back-and-forth between the council and Blowers, the council finally granted approval for his dream project. But here’s the twist: while the pool and gym are good to go, the cheeky greenhouse won’t be officially sanctioned. 🌱
Planning officer Kate Bingham described the greenhouse as “domestic, modern and highly reflective,” calling it a blip against the manor’s timeless charm. Yet, the council deemed the greenhouse a minor woe compared to the grand vision of a manor revitalised with new residential spaces and biodiversity initiatives.
Steeped in history, the Great Campston Manor has ties to King Charles I and Welsh warrior Owain Glyndwr, making this estate a gem of the Welsh countryside. Once visited by royalty, could it also be the site of modern-day intrigue with a touch of green drama? 🌟
What’s your take on this garden spat? Should Blowers have to uproot his glassy creation or is this a classic case of harmless horticulture? Let us know in the comments below! 💬