Latest news with #RomneyMarsh
Daily Mail
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Paul O'Grady's widower slashes price of star's £3.5M Edwardian mansion by 30% in a bid to sell following dispute with neighbours - just months after being reduced by almost £1million
Paul O'Grady 's widower Andre Portasio has slashed the price of the star's £3.5 million Edwardian mansion by 30%, it's been reported. The comedian, who shot to fame as Lily Savage, had lived at Knoll Hill House near Ashford from 1999 until his death in March 2023 aged 67. His husband later inherited the estate. The sprawling property initially hit the market for £3.5 million in September but sparked little interest from buyers, resulting in the asking price dropping by almost £1 million to £2.65million in January this year. However, following a fierce dispute with neighbours over his plans to convert a security hut, Andre has now reduced the price of the property even further. The lavish home is now on the market for £2.4million, with the new price advertised on property sites including Zoopla as well as estate agents Strutt & Parker who are managing the property. Knoll Hill House comes with a sprawling 20 acres of land, boasts impressive views of the Romney Marsh in Kent and has previously been described as 'the kind of house you'd find in one of those Enid Blyton books' by O'Grady's former partner Brendan Murphy, who died in 2005. Once owned by fellow comedian Vic Reeves, the property mixes traditional elegant characteristics like French doors with quirkier qualities such as bookcase wallpaper and a Gypsy caravan in the garden. Estate agent Strutt and Parker said: 'Knoll Hill House sits in a breathtaking position at the top of the escarpment above the Romney Marsh which affords the most sensational far-reaching views, looking across the marsh to the coast and the sea in the distance. 'Built in 1910 the house has much charm, providing a comfortable and spacious space in which to live and entertain against this stunning backdrop.' Ballet dancer Andre had previously angered neighbours in the quaint village of Adlington by trying to turn a security hut on the site into a separate two-bedroom house and make it three times bigger. After losing his initial bid, he later won another battle to turn it into a holiday let instead. However, locals were further angered by him cutting the price in January, accusing him of 'cashing in' by flogging the seven-bedroom Kent farmhouse for the then reduced price of £2.65 million. Neighbours and locals said the former Lily Savage star was popular, but since his death they have been upset at goings-on connected to the property. One told MailOnline: 'We've not seen Andre much at all. It just feels like he's trying to cash in on the property after Paul died with all these various plans. Andre had previously angered neighbours in the quaint village of Adlington by trying to turn a security hut on the site into a separate two-bedroom house and make it three times bigger [Andre and Paul in 2018] 'It's really sad. Now he's lowered the price. There's a big difference between the sort of people who would pay £3.5 million and £2.65 million, in my opinion. 'It's worth more than three million, I would say. I wish he would just decide what he wants to do with it and get on with it. 'It's an absolutely stunning property and I am sure Paul had many cherished memories there.' While Fred Jaeger, 77, who has lived opposite the property for 40 years, described the latest row as 'really sad'. He said: 'I thought the holiday let plan was very bad. It would have cheapened the area a lot. I did not agree with that at all. 'It's a really unique property. I think it's the best house in Kent. I just wish Andre would decide what he wants to do with it. 'It's not good that it has been lowered in price. I cannot understand why it would not be sold. It's absolutely breath-taking. He should have kept it at the value it was originally.' The 50-acre estate mixes traditional features like French doors with quirkier aspects such as bookcase wallpaper and a Gypsy caravan in the garden. The mansion, which boasts a 'Witches House' in the garden, is situated in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and comes with four acres of woodland. The kitchen is arranged around an island and benefits from an Aga with French doors which open to the terrace and the gardens beyond. On the first floor are five bedrooms, four of which face the Romney Marsh, while the main bedroom has a dressing room with French doors opening to a balcony and an en suite bathroom. Two of the other bedrooms also enjoy access to a balcony. As well as Knoll Hill House itself, the estate boasts a swimming pool and several outbuildings, including two self-contained cottages, a barn and stables. The cottage, which is now a dance studio, gym and steam room with a kitchen, bedroom and living space upstairs, is the largest of the outbuildings. A timber-clad cottage, nicknamed 'the Woodland Hut', provides additional room and has been described as a 'charming and whimsical building', with a wood burner, exposed brick walls and a galleried bedroom. As many as 14 sheep, three dogs, two pigs, hundreds of rescue chickens, ducks, alpacas, goats and barn owls all call Knoll Hill home thanks to O'Grady, a keen animal lover.
BBC News
14-07-2025
- Climate
- BBC News
Large grass fire breaks out on Romney Marsh
A large grass fire has broken out in a rural part of Kent, a fire service has Fire & Rescue Service reported at 16:30 BST on Monday that it had four crews in attendance at the blaze in Dungeness Road on Romney crews are using a fogging unit and a high pressure hose reel jet in an effort to extinguish the flames, the service said. A spokesperson said: "People living or travelling near this area are being advised to close windows and doors due to a large plume of smoke."
BBC News
21-06-2025
- Business
- BBC News
Could Kent and Dungeness be part of UK's nuclear 'golden age'?
We are entering a "golden age of nuclear", says Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, and calls are being made for Kent to be included in the planned new has proved to be a big month for nuclear power, with £16.7bn committed to developing the Sizewell C reactor as well as small modular reactors (SMRs) to meet growing electricity with the government looking to select an SMR site later this year, voices in the county say that Dungeness, with its existing infrastructure, is ideal for the latest low-carbon energy opinions are split, with opponents saying that new nuclear in Dungeness will be at the expense of the environment. Before defuelling began in June 2021, Dungeness B generated enough electricity for a million homes a year on average across its 38-year lifespan, according to energy company the plant has been shut since 2018 due to "significant" technical challenges, Kent County Council's newly elected Reform UK councillor David Wimble, cabinet member for environment, said he hoped Dungeness would be "on the list" for an SMR. Speaking to Radio Kent, he said: "People are scared by the word nuclear. We would really love to have new nuclear on Romney Marsh and would favour that over covering half of the marsh in solar panels."Mr Wimble said building an SMR in Dungeness would be "very simple" with the infrastructure to join the National Grid already in place from the former power station. 'Multiple options' The government's new era of nuclear energy focuses around small modular reactors, which are to be built by Rolls-Royce, and over £2.5bn has been pledged to the scheme as part of the recent Spending a site is selected later this year, the government hopes to have the new SMRs connected to the grid in the Cheetham, of the Nuclear Institute, said it was "more than possible" for an SMR to be built at Dungeness while decommissioning of the previous reactor took place. And, with the infrastructure and skills already in the area, he said there were "multiple options for the future of the site".He added: "We are seeing investment and the government are well aware that these investments need to be made now to have nuclear power for the next 10 to 40 years." 'Particularly problematic' The debate over whether Dungeness could return to the nuclear power fold has been long-running, even before decommissioning began on the current 2010, the government published its examination on sites it believed to be fit for new reactors by the end of its assessment, Dungeness was not deemed to be a potentially suitable site, as it believed that no new reactor could be built without more sea defences which would damage the site at a Special Area of a result, in 2023 a minority-Green Party administration Folkestone and Hythe District Council committed to a "new era of clean energy production". Richard Outram, of the Nuclear Free Local Authorities campaigning group, said Dungeness was a "particularly problematic" site because of the environmental impact. He said: "There's a very high possibility of flooding in Dungeness."The fact is that nuclear power will be too slow to have a meaningful impact on climate change."I think that, realistically, we don't have the time to wait for this 'golden age' to be delivered."But, with the end of 2025 now much closer on the horizon, the decision crucially did not rule out future then-Coalition government recognised the strength of feeling from residents, with most respondents in favour of Dungeness as a potential report added: "A new nuclear power station at Dungeness would be likely to have long term positive impacts on employment, the economy and communities at the local level."With Dungeness B now in the defuelling process, it was also argued that job losses from its decommissioning could be offset by construction and operation of a new remains to be seen how Dungeness and Kent will pay its part in any potential nuclear "golden age".A government spokesperson said no decision had yet been made on sites for the new SMR programme but that a decision was expected to be made later in EDF spokesperson said it welcomed discussion about Dungeness and was "happy to engage with projects looking to develop the site" but was focussing on its current sites as well as developing Hinkley Point and Sizewell C.
The Sun
10-06-2025
- The Sun
Our pick of Kent's best beaches from hidden bays to pubs on the sand ahead of the 26C weather
THE UK is set to welcome weather up to 26C this week - so there has never been a better time to visit the beach. One of the easiest beach spots to get to is the Kent coastline, with some being less than an hour from London. Along with some more popular beaches, The Sun Travel team have rounded up some of their lesser-known favourites, where you are more likely to bump into a local than a tourist. Here are 10 of the best to choose from to make the most of the sun this weekend. Dungeness Beach, Romney Marsh Not your average parasol and sun lounger beach, Dungeness on the south Kent coast used to be known as Britain's only desert, thanks to its barren landscape. It's part nature reserve, part nuclear power station and part cod-fishing mecca, and also possibly the bleakest-looking stretch of coast in the whole of the UK. This is also its draw for many like me, who love how desolate it looks. The late artist and filmmaker Derek Jarman felt the same way, and visitors still visit to see his quaint old seaside cottage and quirky garden. Stone Bay, Broadstairs While Broadstairs has seven sandy coves to explore, all linked by clifftop paths that offer spectacular views across the English Channel. But Stone Bay is a good alternative if you're looking to escape the crowds, with the traditional a British seaside resort alongside imposing Victorian buildings sitting alongside fisherman's cottages. With lots of family-friendly fun including arcades and rides, it's becoming a bit of a foodie mecca too. Trendy English seaside town has rooftop bar that 'feels like the Med' Twenty Seven Harbour Street has stunning views and tasty treats cooked over fire. And must-visit is Morelli's - it's been serving up traditional gelato since 1932 with the fabulous Art Deco interior only beaten only just by the stunning sundaes. Head of Travel (Print) - Lisa Minot 9 9 Mermaid Beach, Folkestone Folkestone has it's all - a hidden sandy beach that comes with the tide and the main pebble beach lined with bars and restaurants. But the pretty Mermaid Beach- named from the rock shape formation looking like a tail - is where to go to avoid the crowds. You are more likely to be joined by local families with a BBQ than hoards of tourists, and it is right under the Leas Cliff Hall which has a new bar open this summer and live music. Mermaid Cafe has some great food and drink nearby too for when you need a snack, as well as the Lower Leas Coastal Park which is free to visit and undergoing renovation. Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey 9 Whitstable Beach, Whitstable Whitstable has long been the most fashionable of Kent's seaside towns, despite the surge in popularity of places like Margate and Folkestone with 'down from Londoners'. I love the town's beach, not for its soft yellow sand (it's instead full of grey pebbles) but for the awesome attractions, pubs and restaurants that line it. Sea Scrub sauna is a lovely experience, the Whitstable Oyster Company is a perfect place for lunch, The Forge oyster shack serves excellent no-frills seafood and The Old Neptune Pub is a great spot for a pint. Head of Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire 9 9 Palm Bay, Margate One of Margate's big draws is the sandy Main Sands which you can see as soon as you leave the train station - but the nearby Palm Bay is my favourite. Having lived in Margate for a number of years, Palm Bay is where you will spot the locals. Tucked under the cliffs, it is much quieter than the main area and is round the corner from Walpole Bay lido - the largest of it's kind in Europe. Make sure to find the pop up sauna as well, and visit on the last Sunday of every month for Cliftonville Farmers' Market, with fresh food and drinks. Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey 9 Kingsgate Bay Beach, Broadstairs The walk from Margate to Broadstairs has some amazing hidden coves, one of which being Kingsgate Bay. With white cliffs on one side and Kingsgate Castle on another, you can even walk through the natural archway depending on the tide (reminiscent of Durdle Door). The sandy beach is often overlooked, as it is only accessed by a steep set of steps and there is very limited parking so it is mainly for walkers to visit. Make sure to grab a pint from the authentic Captain Digby pub above too. Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey 9 Deal Beach, Deal While the broad sweep of pebbles on Deal's seafront may not be great for kiddie sandcastles, this is a very grown-up place for adult fun. With its upmarket bistros and historic buildings, it is picture postcard pretty and its high street behind has won awards for its range of independent shops. The Royal Hotel is the perfect place to admire the beach and sea views, you'll be in good company as Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton were once frequent visitors. For somewhere great to stay, The Clarendon Hotel is an elegant 18th century building right on the seafront with great views across to Deal Pier where you can stroll by day to the restaurant at the end or watch anglers try their luck along its length. Trying to choose somewhere to eat? The Frog & Scot is a great small plates restaurant, while The Pelican is one for fish-lovers. Head of Travel (Print) - Lisa Minot 9 Camber Sands Beach, Camber East Sussex lays claim to Camber Sands, but according to Wikipedia a small fraction of this seven-mile-long beach reaches over the Kent border. Which helpfully means we can use it as part of this round-up, as it is easily the best beach in the area. Backed by large sand dunes, Camber is so large that you can always find a spot - even on the hottest of summer days - if you are willing to walk. After an afternoon lazing in the sun, drive 10 minutes down the road to the medieval town of Rye for a pub dinner. Head of Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire 9
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
New solar panel farm planned for farmland
An energy company is proposing to build a solar farm in the Kent countryside. SSE Renewables has opened a non-statutory consultation on the Shepway Energy Park project, which will span six sites in Romney Marsh, near Newchurch. Local residents said they were concerned about the loss of farmland and feared the scheme would destroy the landscape. According to SSE's project brochure, the scheme will "make a significant contribution towards the UK meeting its net zero targets". The company were contacted by the BBC. SSE also said in its brochure that solar farms improved food security by addressing climate change and created new income streams for farmers. The company says the scheme is considered a nationally significant infrastructure project and it will apply to the government, rather than the local council, for development consent in due course. The current consultation runs until 13 June. In addition to 200 megawatts (MW) of solar panels, the proposal also involves building a 400MW battery storage facility. Amanda Farrant, who leads the campaign group Hands Off Our Marsh, told BBC Radio Kent she was concerned about disruption from construction vehicles. Energy security and food security "can't come at the expense of each other", she added. Ms Farrant, whose home borders the site, said the plans would "industrialise our village". "I don't mind solar but just not so much of it in one place. It's huge. This is 1,000 acres of farmland," she added. A spokesperson for SSE said: "We are in the early stages of defining the project and we are carrying out a full assessment of any impacts to the local area. Through this project we will proactively aim to implement positive improvements such as Biodiversity. "Our proposals for Shepway Energy Park will not only help generate more renewable power in the UK and make a significant contribution towards meeting net zero targets but also deliver against local priorities around tackling climate change and generating more electricity from renewable sources. "We look forward to this opportunity to engage with the local community on our plans during this consultation." The Shepway Energy Park consultation comes after energy firm Low Carbon announced a proposal for an even bigger solar farm near Old Romney in November. A Department for Energy Security and Net Zero spokesperson said solar projects had "a rigorous planning process" where community views and environmental impacts are considered. Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@ or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250. Proposed solar farm could power 140,000 homes Plans for huge Kent solar farm rejected Battery farms are 'emerging risk', says fire chief Why more mega solar farms are coming to the countryside Shepway Energy Park SSE Renewables Hands Off Our Marsh The Planning Inspectorate
