Aaron Taylor-Johnson and his wife, film director Sam Taylor-Johnson, have received retrospective approval from the local council following the excavation of a lake at their 16th-century farmhouse in Somerset. The couple initially faced criticism from neighbours over these unauthorised works, but they have since won praise for promoting local biodiversity.
The couple's actions drew concern as neighbours speculated that the new lake might be intended for open water swimming. However, these fears have been alleviated as many residents now appreciate the ecological benefits, noting the increase in bird life. Among the notable sightings have been flocks of geese and the calls of a Tawny Owl, activities that had previously been rare in the area. Local resident Amy Fukuyama expressed her joy, saying, "I live to the west of the fields belonging to Great House Farm and am overjoyed at the prospect of the increase to biodiversity in our area." Fukuyama reported an improvement in the view and a refreshing change from the previous standard monoculture landscape.
Fellow neighbour Darren Tune also welcomed the transformation of the field, which he described as providing very little habitat before the pond's creation. He stated, "My home looks over the field and my land buts on to the field, I can see the pond and I consider the construction noise was not intrusive." Another local resident, Ty Schlechter, reinforced this sentiment, noting the positive impact on wildlife in the village and advocating support for the couple’s endeavours.
The couple purchased the property, previously owned by Grand Designs presenter Kevin McCleod, for £1.85 million in 2010. The planning approval followed a successful inspection conducted last week, which found no issues with the pond, now designated as part of a flood alleviation scheme aimed at protecting the Grade II-listed farmhouse and preventing flooding that has plagued the area. Planning official Jane Thomas noted that the new wetland features would help manage the flow of spring-fed watercourses and would contribute to a significant gain in biodiversity across the wider estate.
Following the approval of the lake, additional permissions were granted for new pedestrian and vehicle gates, as well as a new surfaced bellmouth, a cattle grid, and timber field gates, alongside stock-proof fencing and native hedge planting. Planners indicated that these works would enhance access to the agricultural land while facilitating maintenance of existing flood prevention measures.
Evidence presented with the retrospective application highlighted that the farmhouse had experienced yearly flooding since 2011, leading the owners to pursue this initiative for both ecological and protective measures. The facilities have reportedly performed well during periods of heavy rain, with a recent report confirming that the flood prevention system is clear and well maintained.
As the couple navigates their challenges with local regulations, Aaron Taylor-Johnson is also garnering attention for his potential casting as the next James Bond. Should he accept the role, he would become the seventh actor to embody the iconic British secret agent since the franchise was established in 1962, adding another layer of public interest to their Somerset residence.
Source: Noah Wire Services