A quiet chapter is closing for Ant McPartlin and his wife, Anne-Marie, as they prepare to leave the sprawling £6 million Wimbledon mansion they’ve called home since 2019. The move comes after a year-long dispute with neighbors regarding the fate of several mature trees on the property.
The couple initially sought permission to remove six trees – a mix of cypress, pine, and yew – sparking immediate opposition. Neighbors argued passionately that the trees were vital to the community and the environment, and that personal preferences shouldn’t outweigh their preservation. The trees were also protected by a strict Tree Preservation Order, adding another layer to the conflict.
Despite the initial setback, Ant and Anne-Marie demonstrated a willingness to compromise. They revised their plans, proposing to preserve all the trees and instead construct “floating” garden rooms – a games room, studio, study, and gym – designed to minimize disturbance to the surrounding landscape.
Their revised proposal, supported by a tree expert who lauded the minimal impact of the construction method, ultimately received council approval. However, the couple has now decided to seek a fresh start elsewhere, despite significant investment in the property, including a luxurious swimming pool and Victorian-style changing rooms.
Sources indicate the decision isn’t related to the planning difficulties, but stems from personal family reasons. The couple, who married in 2021, had poured considerable resources into transforming the three-story house, which boasts five reception rooms, a cinema, and a sunroom, into their dream home.
While the sale marks the end of a significant project, Ant’s financial stability ensures he can readily create another idyllic setting for his family. The move signals a new phase for the couple, as Ant prepares to return to hosting duties on “I’m A Celebrity” later this month.
The Wimbledon estate, with its extensive amenities and carefully considered renovations, represents a substantial chapter in their lives. The decision to move, though surprising to some, underscores the importance of family considerations in shaping their future.
