£4M Mansion on Sandbanks, Dorset, Faces Demolition After a High Court Ruling Quashed Its Planning Permission, Following a Legal Challenge

Retired accountant Neil Kennedy built the luxury home overlooking Poole Harbour, replacing an old chalet bungalow, but contractors deviated from approved plans, adding an extended balcony that invaded the privacy of celebrity interior designer Celia Sawyer, unapproved side windows including one facing Weston's bedroom, and an air conditioning unit on the roof. BCP Council approved retrospective permission in January 2024, but Weston sued, arguing the planning officer failed to visit the site. Judge Andrew Keyser KC ruled the decision unlawful, ordering the council to pay £14,754 in costs.

Kennedy has submitted a fresh application to erect a replacement dwelling, with his planning consultant Martin Hanham blaming builders and architects, saying Kennedy was unaware consent was needed. The Sandbanks Neighbourhood Forum objected, citing overlooking, noise, and privacy concerns. No enforcement action has been taken against Kennedy, and all parties declined to comment.

The officer did not visit the properties; arguable this did not enable a correct understanding of the subject development and the impact on neighbouring properties. The errors in the officer's report went beyond typing errors and there was a material misunderstanding of the factual position which renders the decision unlawful.