Ed Sheeran is again facing potential opposition from local residents as he seeks planning permission for a new wildlife pond at his recording studio complex in Suffolk. The proposed feature, described in planning documents as a 'small habitat pond,' aims to boost biodiversity at his £1.1 million studios, which locals have nicknamed 'Sheeranville II.'
This proposal comes after Sheeran faced significant backlash for a similar, larger pond at his £3.7 million estate, known as Sheeranville. The earlier pond, approved in 2016 for conservation purposes, was intended for insects, amphibians, and birds. However, steps, a jetty, and a changing room were later added, leading to complaints from neighbors who felt it resembled a swimming pool. Sheeran himself admitted to using the pond for swimming, and a video of him jumping into it was posted on Instagram two years ago, further fueling local anger.
The new proposal for the Tannington Lodge estate involves creating a pond within an existing arable field. Plans include a raised bund planted with native scrub and a wooden boardwalk to conceal filtration equipment, alongside wildflower planting. A planning statement asserts that the pond will enhance local wildlife and make good use of unused agricultural land, adding that there are no nearby residents who would be adversely affected.
However, some locals have expressed concerns, citing Sheeran's history with the previous pond and the potential for increased activity given the nature of musicians who might use the studio facilities. They are watching the situation closely.
Sheeran has been involved in numerous planning disputes with neighbors since acquiring properties near his childhood home starting in 2012. His estate has grown to include multiple farmhouses, cottages, and bungalows, developing into a complex with its own pub, football pitch, swimming pool, and underground music rooms. Past applications for a hay bale wall, a pub sign, and an Anglo-Saxon-style chapel also generated controversy, although the chapel was eventually permitted for use as a place to mourn lost loved ones, and a crypt was later added as a potential final resting place.
The current project at Tannington Lodge also includes plans to renovate six outbuildings for use as storage for a 'music archive.' The barns, some dating back to 1870, are in ruins and will be repaired, with new windows, doors, and staircases installed, while retaining original features. The council's ecology team has requested the addition of bat and bird boxes, bee bricks, and living roofs to support diverse habitats, and the highways department has approved the project contingent on a construction management plan that ensures public rights of way are not obstructed.
Construction on the music studios and renovation work has been slow, partly due to the presence of protected Great Crested Newts, requiring builders to use hand tools and take special measures. Sheeran has also committed to creating a 'species rich, flowering lawn' and planting fruit trees. An insider described the development as part of a masterplan to create an unparalleled music hub.
Sheeran, who has achieved significant global success, has amassed a considerable property portfolio beyond his Suffolk estates, including properties in London and a villa in Italy.