Kelsey Grammer, the American actor known for his roles in “Cheers” and “Frasier,” alongside his wife Kayte, is facing opposition from local residents over their request to demolish a historic cottage located near Portishead, Bristol. The couple has approached North Somerset planners to determine whether they need prior council approval for the demolition, following a setback last year when their proposal for a substantial extension was rejected.

Grammer, 70, who famously lent his voice to Stinky Pete in “Toy Story 2,” first acquired the cottage in Portishead alongside Kayte, who is the daughter of Bristol City football legend Alan Walsh. They first met during a flight, and the couple tied the knot in 2011. In previous comments, Grammer expressed fondness for the Portishead area, stating, “I love the people in Portishead, and I love my time there.” He spoke positively about their newly acquired property, which he described as a “little place” they intended to work on, adding that they had a lovely view of Wales from the channel.

Last year, the couple proposed to demolish the various extensions added to the historic cottage in the 1980s and replace them with a new extension that would nearly double the size of the original structure along with the addition of a basement. This proposal was turned down by local planners who cited concerns regarding the project’s visibility from the road and its potential to harm the openness of the Green Belt. While the Grade II listed status of the building did not apply, local heritage experts identified it as a ‘non-designated heritage asset,’ indicating its historical significance dating back to the post-medieval period.

Recently, the couple returned to the planning authority with a request to demolish the entire cottage, which has raised concerns among local residents and neighbours. The latest application was submitted by a local planning agent and includes a report indicating there are no bats residing in the cottage, a factor that often complicates demolition efforts. Despite this, many neighbours have voiced their discontent regarding the demolition proposal. One homeowner described the previous extension plans as “rather monstrous” and strongly opposed the complete demolition, questioning the rationale behind the request given the cottage’s “pretty structurally-sound” nature and its historical value.

Another neighbour echoed similar sentiments, arguing that the reasons for rejecting the initial extension proposal remained relevant. They expressed a desire for the cottage to be modernised but warned that the complete demolition of a structure that is at least 185 years old “is not acceptable.” This resident called on the local authority to reject the demolition request and suggested pursuing a more moderate approach to any future plans for the property.

As the Grammers navigate the complexities of local planning regulations and the sentiments of nearby residents, the future of the historic cottage remains uncertain. The situation continues to unfold as the local planning authority, along with community members, considers the implications of Grammer’s proposals.

Source: Noah Wire Services