Jonathan Ross fights against 185 new homes near his holiday retreat

The controversy surrounding a proposed development in Swanage, Dorset, has intensified, particularly concerning the holiday home of talk show host Jonathan Ross. Originally, plans for 93 new homes on a former school site were presented, which Ross voiced concerns over, citing 'distressing loss of privacy' as a key issue. However, new information has emerged that indicates a second neighboring site may also yield an additional 92 properties, bringing the total to 185 homes that could be constructed directly adjacent to Mr. Ross's Grade II Listed farmhouse. This significant development has raised alarm among local residents who fear the impact of such extensive housing on the community. Many argue that the local infrastructure, including medical facilities and schools, cannot accommodate the surge in population that would result from this development. In letters of objection, various residents highlighted similar concerns regarding privacy and the potential for overdevelopment in the area. They suggested that while they do not oppose development altogether, it should be done with sensitivity to the needs of current residents and the overall character of the neighborhood. Moreover, objections were raised concerning the affordability of the proposed homes, suggesting they would likely be out of reach for local residents, thereby compounding the issue of housing availability in Swanage. Comments from local individuals included skepticism about whether this development plan would genuinely benefit the community or if it was merely a profit-driven venture. The local council has been considering the Harrow House site for potential development, but a significant contingent of the community remains opposed to the scale and nature of these housing proposals.