Ongoing renovations at Rosemary Cottage, a historic Grade II-listed property on what is known as ‘England’s prettiest street’ in Bibury, have reignited local anger. Owner Metin Dener’s plans, including a large outdoor fireplace and an underground car park, have drawn sharp criticism from neighbors and the Cotswold District Council.
Residents and the parish council condemn the extensive work as a “flagrant disregard for the history and beauty of the area,” arguing that the once modest cottage has been turned into a “monstrosity.” The property, located on Awkward Hill, has been a source of controversy due to prolonged construction and the disruptive impact on the tranquil village environment.
Despite expectations that the renovation might soon conclude, new applications detailing materials for the underground car park indicate that construction is continuing. Additionally, a separate “part retrospective” application for the outdoor fireplace and landscaping remains under review, provoking further objections.
Bibury Parish Council expressed strong disapproval of the outdoor fireplace, calling it “huge” and out of character with the surrounding historic setting. The council highlighted the fireplace’s visible chimney as detrimental to the area’s nationally recognized heritage and noted that its placement contradicts local planning regulations. They also questioned the competence of the architects and site advisors, requesting increased monitoring by planning officers to oversee all aspects of the site cohesively, rather than piecemeal.
Local residents have voiced frustration over the upheaval. One neighbor lamented, “It was a tiny Cotswolds cottage, and now look—it’s become a monstrosity.” They pointed out that the construction has dragged on for nearly three years, causing continuous noise, damage to verges, and access issues due to frequent truck traffic servicing the site.
Over the years, multiple planning applications have been submitted for works including roof tile replacement, insulation installation, and more ambitious proposals like a conservatory and stone summerhouse—some later withdrawn. These prolonged activities have added to the community’s grievances.
In response to accusations of overdevelopment, representatives for the owner stated that the actual footprint increase is minimal—only about 1.2 square meters—mostly due to replacing an above-ground garage with an underground version. They insisted that other modifications have involved repairs and landscaping rather than expansion. The contractors acknowledged the disruption caused by the construction, attributing delays and challenges to the site’s complex terrain, narrow access roads, and heavy tourist traffic, which have limited vehicle movements and slowed progress.
Though efforts have been made to inform residents about deliveries and material removals, communication has not always succeeded. The client and contractors recognize the resulting frustration but stress that construction practices are governed by the current planning system’s constraints.