“Britain’s largest private recreational space” might potentially be transformed into a vacation rental, causing unease among locals following the council’s endorsement of the proposal – despite objections regarding noisy amenities like hot tubs and saxophones.
Graham Wildin, a 70-year-old millionaire, has persistently defied court orders to dismantle his unauthorized 10,000sq/ft leisure complex and has even faced imprisonment as a consequence.
This dispute dates back to 2014 when Wildin constructed the recreational space, complete with a bowling alley, casino, and cinema, at the rear of his property without obtaining planning approval.
Hailing from Cinderford, Gloucestershire, Wildin faced incarceration for his failure to adhere to a court directive to decommission the structure and has encountered multiple legal defeats.
Currently, a provisional green light has been granted for a neighboring property to be converted into a holiday rental, despite concerns raised by nearby residents about potential noise disturbances, gatherings, and parking issues.
The six-bedroom residence abuts the infamous 10,000sq/ft leisure complex and is reportedly owned by Wildin’s family, as per reports from the LDRS.
According to the LDRS, local residents have expressed apprehensions about noise levels, obstructed access due to parked vehicles, and disturbances caused by revelers that prevent them from opening their windows.
The proposal was put forth for the six-bedroom property situated at 24 Meendhurst Road in Cinderford and has received temporary authorization.
Paradise Trustees, reportedly linked to Mr. Wildin through family ties, submitted the application to the Forest of Dean District Council.
Despite objections from numerous locals and the Cinderford Town Council regarding the conversion of the adjacent property into a holiday rental, citing concerns about it being a potential “party house,” the plans were deliberated by the development management committee, as per the LDRS.
Residents on Meendhurst Road have encountered challenges due to the property, which allegedly introduces unwanted noise disturbances, especially during external social gatherings in the front garden or on the raised deck area.
Critics highlighted that the property draws in large groups for boisterous parties with loud music, compelling residents to keep their windows shut, as reported by the LDRS. Notably, during one event, a guest playing a saxophone kept neighbors awake, prompting objections to the proposed plans.
Objectors contended that the property’s size exceeds its intended use, potentially diminishing the value of neighboring homes and already impacting their overall quality of life.
Despite these reservations, district council officers recommended the temporary approval of the plans until January 2026 to allow for a thorough assessment of the highway and noise implications associated with the property’s utilization.
Representing 25 residents, a local individual highlighted noise complaints and stress stemming from parking and waste management issues. As per the LDRS, Ben Pearce, speaking on behalf of the applicants, indicated that the holiday rental has been operational since July 2022 without encountering road-related problems.