Paul O’Grady’s widower recently resolved a dispute with neighbors over his plans to turn part of the late TV star’s £3 million Kent estate into a holiday let. Andre Portasio, a former professional dancer who inherited the property after O’Grady’s passing last year, faced objections from locals regarding his proposal to convert an existing groundkeeper’s house into a cottage for tourists.
While some neighbors raised concerns about potential road accidents and the need for more holiday lets in the area, others supported Portasio’s plans. Despite initial refusals, the local council eventually approved the scheme, citing government guidance that encourages sustainable tourism and enterprise in rural areas.
Portasio’s application for a change of use of the lodge, which includes an office, kitchen, and shower, was initially met with resistance. Some neighbors feared that allowing this conversion would set a precedent for inappropriate developments in the countryside. However, the planning officer ultimately deemed the proposal acceptable, noting that it would not significantly alter the appearance of the property.
The decision to approve the holiday let came after a series of objections and debates among residents and local authorities. While some saw the potential for misuse of the property, others believed that the proposal aligned with the area’s tourism growth objectives. Despite the controversy, Portasio’s persistence eventually paid off, allowing him to move forward with his plans.
Paul O’Grady’s love for the countryside was well-known, and his dream of living on a farm became a reality when he purchased the Kent estate. Over the years, he and Portasio built a life together on the property, surrounded by various animals and the beauty of nature. Their shared love for animals was evident in the menagerie they kept, which included dogs, goats, sheep, ducks, chickens, owls, and alpacas.
In the end, the approval of the holiday let marked a new chapter for Portasio and the estate he inherited from O’Grady. Despite the initial challenges and objections, he was able to secure the necessary permissions to proceed with his vision for the property. As the controversy subsides, the focus now shifts to the future of the estate and how it will continue to honor O’Grady’s legacy in the years to come.