EXCLUSIVE We live in Britain's strictest village and we LOVE it... but we're terrified of new neighbours moving in

Daily Mail​

10-05-2025

Locals in an authoritarian Yorkshire village which has strict rules on planning and a complete ban on takeaways have complained their way of life is under threat after a flash developer lodged plans to create a luxury hotel and spa on their doorstep.
Villagers in Wentworth, South Yorkshire, known as Britain's strictest village, told MailOnline they were happy with their draconian rules, which state they must seek permission from the 'village trust' before they can go ahead with home improvements.
There are no supermarkets and takeaways are banned by the village elders.
One of the more notorious rules compels all locals to have their front doors painted the exact same shade of green, the colour of the nearby Wentworth Estate.
The result, they claim, is a dreamy English village redolent of times gone by, with a teashop, grocers, post office and country pub.
But now the rhythm of life in the picture post card village could be set for change after plans were submitted to transform a nearby farm into a trendy hotel and spa.
The buildings where generations of farm workers once toiled in howling rain could be transformed into an achingly hip hotel and spa.
The design team have referenced some of the UK's trendiest hotels and clubs, including the world famous Annabel's in London's Mayfair.
However Mary Pearson, whose family have been tenant farmers on the estate since the 1950s, told a parish council meeting that she had not been consulted.
Mary said: 'I was once washing pots at the kitchen sink and saw a tape measure going across the kitchen window.
'It is very, very, disturbing. I have been very disturbed for the last eight years.'
She said to the Mail; 'Let's just say we are facing an uncertain future if the plans do go ahead.'
A woman walking her dog in the village said:'It's such a shame for the family who run the farm. They have been there for years. I suppose it will bring more people to the village, but at what cost?'
Phil Russell, who lives nearby, said: 'From what I have seen the plans will bring more visitors to the village.
'But I do worry a bit about the traffic. The last thing we need is more cars.'
Locals have been adamant that the village 'does not need' a hotel as others worry about more road accidents, traffic and pollution
Dave, who has lived in the village for 50 years, said:'The plans look fine but I do worry about the traffic.
'We have too many lorries travelling through the village. And there have been fatal accidents over recent years. We need traffic calming measures as soon as possible.'
Daniel Wild, who runs the village shop with his wife Katie, said: 'Look anything that will help footfall has to be a good thing.
'The village is beautiful but it can get a little quiet, particularly after 6pm.
'We love it here but have to work seven days week to keep the business going.'
Over a dozen locals have raised objections to the plans on the council's website.
The majority of the objections raise concerns over the increased volume of traffic which will be expected if the plans are approved.
One local said: 'The village does not need this' and another said there will be 'traffic, pollution and more accidents.'
And a neighbour said; 'This will be detrimental to the area and a family farm be lost.'
The planning statement submitted by the applicant conveys the scale of their ambition to transform the old farm and duck pond into Vogue standard hotel and spa.
'The converted Grade II listed Threshing Barn will comprise a generous light-filled double height reception with a simple, modern staircase. Existing brick walls will be exposed where possible.
'The proposed restaurant, bar and guest lounge accommodated within the existing Gun Park building should evoke relaxation and understated luxury through the use of warmer textures and materials internally such as timber.
'A new, contemporary flat roof glazed link will be inserted between the two historic stone buildings to create a bright and airy transition space.
'A series of single and double spa treatment rooms are proposed in the converted Threshing Barn ground floor vaults, akin to the images adjacent.
'The new build purpose built spa including pool, sauna, steam room and associated facilities is linked to the hotel via a flat roof, glazed walkway. It also contains a cafe and the proposed floor to ceiling height glazing with slatted timber screens will provide glimpse views of the new courtyard and enhanced connectivity across the whole site.
Home Farm Spa aspires to be a combination of clean, contemporary detailing and a rustic aesthetic, celebrating the historic fabric to be preserved. It is essential the finishes are appropriate for the variety of proposed uses.'
Cllr Brendan J McNamara, Chair of Wentworth Parish Council, said: 'At a recent Parish council meeting, which was held on the 28th April, a decision was made for the parish council to consider expert advice.
'Following on from that, an informal meeting took place on the 1st May between three Parish councillors and three members of the public, where the Parish Councillors confirmed that Parish Council were considering seeking specialist advice.
The parish council will continue to work with the Fitzwilliam Estate and the community.'
A spokesperson for the local authority said that the planning application was 'currently being assessed.'