Ricky Gervais in ‘row with neighbours’ as locals air concern over new tennis court plans at £14m home
Ricky Gervais is reportedly embroiled in a row with neighbours over concerns about a “noisy” tennis court at his Hampstead mansion.
It comes as the comedian began revamping his £14.5 million home in December, with some locals understood to be complaining about potential noise pollution that could come from the planned tennis court.
The 63-year-old actor hopes to use the court for “one-to-one tennis coaching,” with plans to chop down nine trees and rip up part of the lawn, despite the property being in a conservation area.
Complaints were dismissed by planning officers, who argued issues such as stray tennis balls are civil matters rather than planning issues, The Sun reports.
One resident told the publication: “It is unfair and unrealistic, noise-wise. It will not only be the ball or balls being hit or bounced before serving that will be noisy.”
A grass badminton court is already a feature of the property, with the local arguing the proposed tennis court would be bigger and louder.
They commented: “The players will make noise when speaking or shouting to each other.
“A tennis court can be used for doubles i.e. four adults and/or children. From time to time there will be spectators watching, shouting and cheering.
“There is a seating arrangement alongside our boundary fence for several spectators to be involved with the game. There is no mention of the number of seats.”
The After Life actor has also faced criticisms over the protection of wildlife in the area.
In order to gain the council’s approval, Gervais’ team had to produce a “biodiversity enhancement plan,” vowing to install two bat roost boxes, a bird next box, a sparrow next terrace, an insect house and a hedgehog home.
Gervais and partner Jane Fallon have also already planted nine new trees and plan to add some more.
It seems residents are also concerned about the space being used for other uses such as a football pitch.
The Office star purchased the property in March last year, undertaking several renovation projects and finally moving in at the end of last year.
The actor, known for his sometimes controversial humour, and frequently uses his social media to slap down cancel culture.
Last year, he posed as an “influencer” when he shared a clip of himself in a bath, poking fun at social media stars who try to promote their own political views onto their audiences.
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He commented: “Hi guys, Ricky G here, wellness and beauty influencer.
“As a celebrity, I know all about stuff, like science and politics. So trust me when I tell you who you should vote for.
“If you don’t vote the right way, it’s like a hate crime, it makes me sad and angry, and I’ll leave the country – you don’t want that.”
GB News has contacted Gervais’ representatives for a comment on the reported complaints.