Sad news to report. Elmbridge Council, in their infinite wisdom, have waived through planning permission to demolish Sunny Heights. A Russian oligarch is about to flatten it in order to build the structure on the right. A contact on St George's Hill informs me that the house is still standing (it's an artist's impression above, not an actual photo), but is abandoned, awaiting destruction.
It should be stated that the new owner hasn't done anything wrong here, but at the same time, to take Russia as an example, it would be unthinkable there that someone could buy up, say, Tolstoy's house in order to destroy it.
Now, you may think that comparing Ringo to Tolstoy is ridiculous, and you'd be right - but I'd argue that it's in no way ridiculous to compare the Beatles as cultural giants in their sphere with any of the great Russian authors in theirs. The difference is that in Russia (as in many other countries) they tend to revere their culture, and want to protect places associated with the great figures of the past. Which, as in this case, is not always true here.
So that's Kinfauns and Sunny Heights gone. A shame.
A shame indeed. What is the interior like now? Completely changed (like Kenwood) or with with partially intact period details?
ReplyDeleteI wish at least one of us fans was very rich and could buy these properties and turn them into museums or hotels where we could all enjoy them!
ReplyDeleteGo on, Sean. Sneak in with your camera !!
ReplyDeleteObviously Ringo doesn't have fond memories of Sunny Heights, or he would've grabbed it back. Still, it's just a complete shame that the council allowed this to happen.
ReplyDeleteIt's obvious that Ringo doesn't have very fond memories of Sunny Heights or he would've grabbed it back at some point. Still, it's a complete shame that the council allowed this to happen...
ReplyDeleteStill loving your blog Sir. I find myself visiting often. Thank you for your good work.
ReplyDelete