RICKY Gervais’ plans to splash out on a dream £6million riverside mansion have again been sunk by council officials over flooding fears.
Comedian and actor Ricky, 63, wants to knock down his existing home and build a new one with a floodable void underneath after being hit by deluges last year.
He even sent in photos to the local council of his Thames-side home under water in a bid to persuade planners to give the go-ahead for the luxury four-bed pad in Buckinghamshire
But they threw out the proposed scheme, saying it was “inappropriate” development in a high flood risk zone – even though he plans to raise the ground floor by 3ft.
The After Life and The Office star and best-selling novelist partner Jane Fallon then submitted revised plans, reducing the height and width of the building.
But it still didn’t wash with planners at the local Council who have again refused permission.
They said: “The development represents inappropriate and more vulnerable development in a high flood risk zone.
“It fails to demonstrate that the development would not have an adverse impact on flood risk within and around the site through the use of appropriate measures to deal with flood risk and surface water drainage to and from the site.”
Planners ruled that the new build was NOT inappropriate development on green belt land and was in keeping with the character and setting of the area.
They also deemed that it caused no loss of amenity for neighbours in terms of privacy, outlook and daylight.
But they said there was no legal agreement on how it would boost biodiversity and help tackle climate change.
They added: “The applicant has failed to demonstrate that the proposals comply with relevant development plan policies.
“There are no conditions that would overcome the concerns outlined above and enable planning permission to be granted. As such, the recommendation is for refusal.”
Gervais bought the 2,811 sq.ft three-bed property for £2.75million in 2014 but it is now believed to be worth £4.3million.
Two years ago, he applied for a first floor side extension but scrapped the plans after the local parish council objected, saying it was too close to the house next door.
The proposed neo-Georgian new build would boast a master bedroom spanning the entire northern elevation with a terrace overlooking the Thames, and a tennis court and pond.
It would also have a grand entrance hall, home gym, snug, TV area, drawing room, reading area and fireplaces, with front and rear flood guards.
In a design statement, Gervais’ planning agent said: “It is worth noting that there were no objections from neighbours to the proposal.
“The proposed scheme seeks to create a high-quality, sustainable dwelling that will be flood resilient and significantly enhances its built and natural surroundings.”
Gervais also owns a £14.75 million nine-bed mansion in Hampstead, London, with a spa and gym, and two New York apartments.
He has six months to appeal to a Government planning inspector against the council’s decision.
