Our Close Community Has Been Ruined
Fighting a “David and Goliath” Battle
Villagers in Huntingfield, Suffolk, are fighting against a billionaire entrepreneur’s plan to create a huge $37,200-a-night wedding venue on their doorstep. The location, known as Blyth Barn, is part of luxury holiday firm Wilderness Reserve owned by Jon Hunt, founder of estate agency Foxtons, and visited by stars such as Zoe Sugg and Jack Whitehall.
The Venue’s Impact
Residents claim the “all singing, all dancing” entertainment center, which could hold 288 people, will destroy their rural idyll. They are particularly concerned about the approval of a 24-hour alcohol license, the effect on local traffic, and late-night disturbance.
Locals’ Concerns
Lorraine Brennan, 61, and Nina Roe, 39, are two villagers who have objected to the plans. They said residents had initially been informed there were plans for a “rural retreat” that have now spiraled into the entertainment venue. They are concerned that their “tranquil and peaceful village would be destroyed” by visitors who may overspill and cause nuisances in the village.
Construction Noise and Traffic
Villagers have been disrupted by construction noise and traffic, with Lorraine complaining that the issue has been “quite mentally distressing.” She said that the village is “very lucky” that it already has a “wonderful pub and little village hall,” but noted that they both shutter by 11 p.m.
The David and Goliath Battle
Lorraine asked, “Why should this development be allowed a 24-hour license? It’s a David and Goliath battle.” Nina Roe added, “Nobody has considered the knock-on effect this will have on traffic, light pollution, noise, or the wildlife. Guests will be moving down into the village, coming into the pub — nobody in the venue can stop that.”
Conclusion
The villagers’ concerns are clear: the development of Blyth Barn will ruin their close community and destroy their rural idyll. The 24-hour alcohol license and potential for noise, traffic, and disturbance will have a significant impact on the village. The villagers are fighting a “David and Goliath” battle against the billionaire entrepreneur’s plans, and it remains to be seen whether their concerns will be heard.
FAQs
Q: What is Blyth Barn?
A: Blyth Barn is a luxury wedding and corporate event venue being developed by Wilderness Reserve.
Q: What are the concerns of the villagers?
A: The villagers are concerned about the approval of a 24-hour alcohol license, the effect on local traffic, and late-night disturbance.
Q: What is the capacity of the venue?
A: The venue could hold 288 people.
Q: Who owns Wilderness Reserve?
A: Wilderness Reserve is owned by Jon Hunt, founder of estate agency Foxtons.
Q: When is the venue expected to be completed?
A: The venue is expected to be completed in May 2025.