A controversial leisure complex built by millionaire Graham Wildin in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, is being demolished following a lengthy legal battle. The “man cave,” constructed without planning permission in 2014, spans 10,000 square feet and includes a cinema, bowling alley, and casino. Despite numerous court orders, Wildin, 72, persistently refused to remove the structure, even serving time in HMP Cardiff for contempt of court.
The Forest of Dean District Council confirmed earlier this year that the demolition would proceed to comply with planning regulations. Initial injunctions to dismantle the complex date back to 2018, with subsequent legal losses for Wildin, culminating in his incarceration in 2022. Upon release, he was ordered to strip the building's interior, a directive he also defied.
Neighbors had earlier won legal battles against Wildin over issues related to his parking of numerous classic cars on the street, which they claimed caused significant disruption. The case has been notable for the council's insistence on recouping demolition costs from Wildin to ensure taxpayers are not burdened. Despite these measures, concerns remain as another property linked to Wildin received temporary approval to operate as a holiday let.