Jonathan Ross criticises development next to Dorset holiday home

The 63-year-old broadcaster has warned some of the 93 new homes proposed at the former Harrow House International College site in Swanage will “directly overlook” his £1.1m farmhouse. 

Developers are looking to redevelop the school grounds, which closed in 2021 after 52 years as a school for international students. 

Mr Ross said: “Building up the height of the current buildings would mean that our property would be directly overlooked.  

“We have bedrooms that face towards the proposed development and the loss of privacy would be very distressing and cause a great deal of stress.  

Sketch of the proposals (Image: Ayre Chamberlain Gaunt)

“We are also concerned about the change to the fabric of local life caused by so many new dwellings in the area, and the direct impact on traffic and amenities.  

“We've been approached many times by developers asking to buy our land for the same purpose and refuse because we are conscious of the impact it would have on the entire community.” 

Meanwhile, other residents of Swanage have also written in to Dorset Council objecting to the proposals, which are currently under consideration by the authority. 

Michael Millar warned Swanage’s infrastructure “can’t handle” another 93 homes, adding it is “hard enough to get doctor’s appointments”. 

Mr Ross warned the flats would directly overlook his home

He added: “The site would be more suited for a supermarket; Swanage is increasingly becoming more crowded and the doctors and hospital, dentists, schools etc. can't handle it.” 

Kellie, of Days Road, agreed: “This site would be a great location for a new supermarket like Aldi as current supermarkets are expensive.  

“In addition, Swanage is in need of a good sports centre/fitness suite for the town and the younger generation.” 

Currently, the Purbeck area does not have a supermarket as such, rather a medium-sized Sainsbury’s in Wareham. Lidl’s proposals for a supermarket in Sandford are still being considered. 

And Janet Scott said “most, if not all” homes will be unaffordable to Swanage’s residents, adding: “The Medical Centre is already overwhelmed and this would be the final straw.” 

Planning consultant Chapman Lily Planning said 10 per cent of the homes would be affordable, with the homes contributing to the Purbeck local plan’s housing target.