Harry Styles is encountering resistance from local residents regarding his ambitious plans to construct a substantial home in Hampstead, London. The 31-year-old singer, known for his time in One Direction, has acquired three properties in the area, with the first two purchased for a total of £12.8 million in April 2019. His latest proposal aims to merge these homes into what some have described as a “monster mansion,” raising concerns about potential impacts on the surrounding community.
In April, Styles received conditional approval from the local council to redevelop the site, provided he incorporates wildlife habitats, including hedgehog and bat boxes. His proposed mansion is set to feature an expansive master suite with four dressing rooms, a gallery, a drawing room, a TV room, a basement cinema, a pool, a sauna, a gym, and a landscaped garden complete with a water feature.
Despite the project’s grandeur, local residents have voiced apprehension. One neighbour expressed their frustration, stating, “It’s sad living next to a building site all the time. This road didn’t used to be like this.” The resident lamented the changes brought about by wealthy buyers, indicating a loss of community spirit as homes are purchased and renovated.
Formally, two neighbours have lodged complaints with the council, citing concerns over their legal rights to natural light. Representatives for one resident stated, “My client is also deeply concerned about their private legal Rights to Light that might be infringed by virtue of the implementation of the proposal.” Another complaint highlighted that the new building would significantly exceed the size of existing properties on the road, which are predominantly two stories tall.
In response to the concerns, Styles’ representatives articulated their vision for the development, emphasizing its potential to restore and enhance the Grade II listed building. They noted that the project aims to amalgamate the two existing houses with internal alterations and extensive landscaping.
To address the issues raised by residents, a daylight and sunlight study was commissioned. The results indicated that the proposed development would have “a negligible impact on neighbouring properties in terms of daylight and sunlight.”
As the plans move forward, Harry Styles anticipates the development will be completed by October 2027. While the project promises to transform the property into one of Hampstead’s notable homes, the ongoing opposition from neighbours highlights the challenges faced by high-profile figures in residential developments.
