The ongoing redevelopment of Rosemary Cottage on Awkward Hill in Bibury, often hailed as England’s prettiest street, has reignited tensions between the property owner, local residents, and the council. Metin Dener, the cottage’s owner, is advancing plans to add a large outdoor fireplace and an underground car park, despite widespread opposition.
Neighbours and the local council have condemned the scale of the work, describing it as a blatant disregard for the area’s historic character. The once tiny Grade II listed Cotswolds cottage has been accused of being transformed into a “monstrosity” by those living nearby.
Years of relentless construction have disrupted the community, and while there was some hope construction would soon conclude, new applications concerning materials for the underground car park indicate the work is far from finished. Additionally, fresh objections have been raised over a separate application regarding the outdoor fireplace and landscaping, currently under review by Cotswold District Council.
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Bibury Parish Council expressed strong disapproval of the fireplace, calling it “huge” and out of keeping with the cottage’s historic curtilage. The council warned that the chimney alters the cherished historic views and contradicts local planning guidelines. They also questioned the competence of the architects and advisors who allowed construction without proper planning consent, urging for stricter monitoring of the entire project.
Residents echoed the council’s concerns, describing the transformation as excessive. One local remarked, “It was a tiny Cotswolds cottage, and now look at it—it’s become a monstrosity.” Many have lamented the prolonged noise, disruption, and damage caused by construction vehicles along the narrow, tourist-heavy roads.
Over the years, multiple planning applications have been submitted for various works, including roof replacements, added insulation, and proposed conservatories, some of which were withdrawn or rejected. Throughout the process, residents have faced continuous inconvenience due to site traffic and damaged verges.
In response to criticism, the developers state the footprint of the cottage has only increased by 1.2 square meters, replacing an above-ground garage with an underground one, along with repairs to retaining walls and landscaping. They acknowledge some disruption from drainage work and the challenges posed by narrow access and heavy tourism but maintain they have attempted to communicate with locals and that the current planning system limits control over construction methods.
As controversy persists, the future of Rosemary Cottage’s renovation remains a contentious issue for one of England’s most picturesque and historic streets.