Geri Halliwell and her husband Christian Horner have won a planning dispute with neighbours over a structure built at their countryside home in Northamptonshire, The Sun reports.
The couple faced backlash after constructing a pergola and gazebo without prior permission, with residents claiming the additions disrupted views of a nearby historic church in the conservation area.
A previous application for retrospective approval was rejected last year, with council officials describing the development as unacceptable. However, a second application to retain the pergola has now been approved, while the status of the gazebo remains unclear.
The pergola, built near the property’s swimming pool, is described as an open oak structure. Neighbours had earlier criticised the couple, including over decorative lighting added to the structure, which they said showed disregard for planning rules.
Planning officials noted that the structures were located between a Grade II-listed house and a Grade I-listed church, with concerns raised about their visual impact. Heritage officers also objected, saying the pergola affected views of the church from the garden.
In their revised application, the couple said planting had been added to soften the structure’s appearance and reduce its visual effect. They argued the design was lightweight, in keeping with traditional garden features, and would not harm the setting of the property.
The dispute is one of several planning issues linked to the home. The couple are awaiting a decision on a proposed horse walker at their stables, while earlier approvals included extensions, a barn, a greenhouse and swimming pools.
Some residents continue to voice frustration over ongoing development and construction activity, saying it detracts from the character of the conservation area.
