Beckhams Face Objections to Estate Lake Lighting Plans

David and Victoria Beckham are facing opposition from neighbors over plans to install LED festoon lighting around a bridge spanning the man-made lake at their Cotswolds estate in Great Tew, Oxfordshire. The proposal, submitted to West Oxfordshire District Council, has drawn complaints that the illumination would create excessive light pollution and disrupt the rural character of the area.

The couple purchased the Grade II-listed farmhouse, known as Maplewood Barn, in 2016 for £6.15 million. The property, now valued at around £12 million, spans 43 acres and serves as a weekend retreat from their primary residence in London. They share the home with sons Romeo, 23, and Cruz, 21, and daughter Harper, 14. The lighting application marks the 32nd planning submission since their acquisition, according to local records.

Local resident James Worthington submitted a detailed letter of objection, arguing that the festoon lamps and spotlights resemble displays more suited to urban entertainment venues than the countryside. "What is proposed is more akin to Miami or Florida NOT GREAT TEW," Worthington wrote. "Spotlights, is this really Great Tew or have I mistaken this area for Blackpool?"...