Beckhams Plant Forest for Security Amid Local Objections

David and Victoria Beckham have secured planning permission to create a dense woodland on their Cotswolds property, planting 79 trees and a wildflower meadow. This development aims to increase the privacy and security of their luxury home, which has been targeted by attempted break-ins.

The couple, who purchased the property in 2016 for approximately £6.15 million, have extensively redeveloped it into a residence now valued at £12 million. West Oxfordshire District Council's approval for the new 'forest' follows a previous go-ahead for a private driveway with security-controlled access.

Despite the council's approval, some neighbours have voiced strong objections. James Worthington argued that the Beckhams are aiming to make their home a 'fortress' and accused them of undertaking work without prior approval, citing the installation of a road, gates, and fencing.

Local resident Joan Lane also objected, questioning the necessity of a new tarmac road through the woods and expressing concern for ramblers using the lane. The Beckhams' planning team presented a transport report highlighting safety issues and traffic congestion on the existing single-lane access road, which also serves the popular Soho Farmhouse retreat.

This woodland planting is the latest in a series of developments at the Beckhams' Grade-II listed country house. Previous applications have included a new driveway, garage outbuilding, tennis court, treehouse, and a landscaped pond. A separate issue concerning a sand bank near their man-made lake is currently under investigation by the council for a potential breach of planning approval.