Arsenal and England winger Bukayo Saka has received approval to demolish his current bungalow and construct a new £4 million mansion in an affluent Hertfordshire village, a decision that has faced significant opposition from local residents.
The proposed development includes a sprawling, high-specification home featuring an underground swimming pool, sauna, and private gym. The plans also detail a large master suite, three double bedrooms, a games room, and a dedicated boot room.
Despite the project's lavish features, eleven neighbors formally objected to the plans. Concerns raised included the proposed mansion's size, height, and its potential to overshadow neighboring properties and disrupt the character of the protected conservation area. Objectors also voiced worries about the home's design, particularly the inclusion of balconies that could infringe on privacy and daylight. Residents questioned the developer's description of the property as a four-bedroom home, citing plans that indicated five bedrooms with the potential for more.
Further objections from residents touched upon potential flooding issues, the impact of heavy construction traffic, and damage to the private road. One resident recalled past construction issues, including water runoff, damage from HGVs, and disruptive working hours, expressing concern that similar problems would recur.
Hertsmere Borough Council, however, concluded that the proposed dwelling would not negatively affect the character or appearance of the conservation area, nor would it harm the residential amenity of surrounding properties. Planning officers ultimately sided with Saka, granting permission for the development.
This is not the first iteration of the project; an earlier plan for the mansion was previously rejected for being too tall and 'overly dominant.' Saka's architects subsequently submitted revised, scaled-back designs that were deemed acceptable by council officials.
Saka purchased the bungalow for £1.3 million in 2023. He also owns a nearby six-bedroom house valued at £2.3 million, which he shares with his fiancée, Tolami Benson. The footballer is currently celebrating Arsenal's first Premier League title win since 2004. He has also submitted separate plans for a 6ft security fence, which is expected to be decided upon next month. There have been no new objections to this fence proposal.