Nobody’s fault but mine? Page faces fresh planning spat
THEY have been arguing over a basement for more than five years, but Jimmy Page may now regret his opposition to Robbie Williams’ swimming pool plans as he applies for permission to fireproof his neighbouring home.
The Led Zeppelin guitarist has been told by his insurers to make changes to his Grade I listed property, which he purchased for £350,000 from Richard Harris, the late actor, in 1972.
He lodged a planning application with the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea council to install several smoke alarms in the property as there is at present no means of raising the alarm in the event of a fire.
Planning documents state that, without the work, there is a “threat” to life and the historically important building ng could suffer “major damage”.
But after opposing some of his neighbours’ attempts to upgrade their properties in recent years, Page may now face resistance.
The plans, by Andrew Townsend Architects, state: “Insurance cover … is currently in place but insurers will withdraw cover if the proposed … measures are not provided.”
Page has previously said he is keen to protect the fragile interior of the property, designed by William Burges, the self-styled “art architect”, between 1875 and 1881. Known as Tower House, it was built in French Gothic style, with stained-glass windows and elaborate carvings. Page, 75, had been involved a row with Williams since 2014, after the former Take That singer lodged plans to build a two-storey, 3,600sq ft basement beneath his rear garden, with a pool, gym and recording studio. Page objected as he feared vibrations from the work would damage his home. The council twice turned down the plans, but gave conditional approval in December last year. Builders Build were instructed to use only hand too tools. Williams, who lives at his Holla Holland Park mansion with his wife Ayda Ay Field and their children, has apo apologised for comparing Page’s beh behaviour to someone with a “mental “men illness”. Page has denied accusi accusing Williams of blasting out music by Led Zeppelin rivals Black Sabba Sabbath, Pink Floyd and Deep Purple. The council will conco sider the Page plans by Jan 23.
A spokesman for Page said: “They are a looking at improving improvi the lack of fire p protection. This is o ongoing investment to ensure a unique and a precious building is protected.” Rep Representatives for Williams have been contacted for comment.