Producer Dismantles Top Floor of Travelodge Mansion

In a long-standing planning dispute, Adam Spiegel, known for his work on The Mousetrap, has reached a compromise regarding his controversial three-storey home, Arcady, which has drawn criticism from neighbors who likened it to a budget hotel. As part of the agreement, Spiegel will demolish the top floor of the property by October 18, 2024, and replace its flat roof with a pitched design. This decision marks a significant development in a saga that has spanned over a decade. The planning conflict began in 2012 when Spiegel and his partner sought to replace a small bungalow with a larger home. Their initial application was rejected, but after an appeal, construction commenced in 2016. However, the local council later determined that the building did not adhere to the approved plans, citing its excessive height. This led to further complications, requiring Spiegel to submit a new application to rectify the issues. Despite facing 19 objections from local residents who felt the home was too imposing, the council ultimately approved the revised plans after receiving 30 letters of support. Some councillors expressed reservations about the project, reflecting the divided opinions within the community regarding the home’s design and its impact on the village's character. With construction now underway, the visible presence of builders and scaffolding signals a resolution to the protracted dispute, allowing Spiegel to move forward with the modifications to his property.