Tensions are rising in Sandbanks, Dorset, one of Britain's most exclusive waterfront communities, as the demolition of historic homes to make way for modern mansions draws sharp criticism. Residents and conservationists are accusing some of the area's newer, wealthier inhabitants of contributing to an architectural decline by replacing period properties with what they describe as "nasty, ugly boxes on steroids."
The current focus of concern is a proposal to tear down Cama, a 115-year-old Arts & Crafts house, to be replaced by a five-bedroom mansion with a swimming pool. David and Heidi Nash, neighbours to football pundit Harry Redknapp, purchased the property for £6 million earlier this year and submitted the demolition plans. However, the proposal has met strong opposition from long-term residents and local authorities.
Simon Bowden, a former investment banker who has lived in Sandbanks for 30 years, voiced his disapproval, calling the planned replacement a "poor pastiche" of the area's celebrated Edwardian architectural style. He argues that such developments, often favored by "recent migrants" to the area, lack architectural merit and detract from the neighborhood's esteemed character.
Historical Significance and Conservation Concerns
Cama, originally owned by camping tycoon Oswald Bailey and remaining in his family for 80 years, is described by Margo Teasdale, conservation officer at Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council, as a "very good example of a substantial Arts and Crafts house" that significantly contributes to the Sandbanks Conservation Area. The council has expressed concern that its demolition would cause "substantial harm to the significance of the area."
Conservationists, including the Sandbanks Neighbourhood Forum (SNF), have also objected to the Nash's plans. They argue the proposed new dwelling is too large for the plot, too close to the water, and would negatively impact harbor views. The SNF advocates for a sensitively designed replacement that respects the site's heritage and enhances the location, rather than contributing to what they term a "rash" of uninspiring and "poorly considered homes" that have emerged in recent years.
A Pattern of Redevelopment
This is not the first instance of significant redevelopment in Sandbanks. Harry Redknapp and his wife Sandra demolished their own £7 million home in 2023 to build a new £12 million Italian-style villa, a project that also drew criticism from neighbors at the time. The SNF has been vocal about the increasing trend of replacing traditional homes with modern, architect-designed residences, noting a "constant push towards increasing heights and density" which they believe could cause "irrevocable impairment of the landscape."
Despite the conservationist objections, the Nash's proposal has garnered support from some residents, including entrepreneur Tom Glanfield and commercial property developer Paul Pressland. Supporters argue the existing house is in need of replacement and that new, modern homes are necessary for the area's continued investment and aesthetic appeal. The Nashes' planning agent maintains that the proposed design, intended to be in a high-quality Arts and Crafts style, will make an "equal or better contribution to the character and appearance of the Conservation Area."