Beyonce and Jay Z are reportedly set to benefit from a “rich person” planning clause which will enable them to build a mansion in the Cotswolds.
The superstar couple, who already own multimillion-pound homes in Los Angeles and the Hamptons, are believed to in the final stages of purchasing 58 acres of land.
The site, on the outskirts of Wigginton, currently holds an algae-filled lake and a shack, but the area can be built on thanks to an exemption clause in the Government’s National Planning Policy Framework.
A “paragraph 80” clause allows for the building of “architecturally important buildings” in places where planning would otherwise be refused, which has been dubbed by some a “rich person clause”.
The 58-acre site has been sold for £7.5million, with the planning permission attached for a “large contemporary” home with seven bedrooms, seven reception rooms and seven bathrooms.
“[It] is totally unique,” the listing read.
“The site for the new house is at the head of a long drive that meanders through beautiful countryside to a magical woodland lake.
“Permission has been granted to create a large contemporary dwelling that part cantilevers over its own lake, has incredible room volumes throughout, will be exceptionally light and have stunning views out over the surrounding countryside.
“The position and the permission are unrivalled.”
The Cotswolds has become a hub for celebrities, with David and Victoria Beckham, Jeremy Clarkson and Kate Moss living in the area.
Property insiders have labelled the Cotswolds the “UK’s answer to the Hamptons,” with its combination of discreet country living and proximity to private members’ clubs like Soho Farmhouse and Estelle Manor.
Reports claim the couple even flew in by helicopter during the London stop of her Cowboy Carter world tour earlier this summer to view the site.
In September, it was reported long-time Wigginton resident Gerry Barrago, 77, told The Times: “I don’t give a flying toss,” before adding that his wife had seen the pair drop into Burford Garden Centre in their Range Rovers.
The land was originally listed with a £7.5 million guide price, but property consultant Owain Jones told the outlet it is likely to be worth upwards of £18 million once a planned seven-bedroom, nine-bathroom mansion overlooking a lake is complete.
Reports claim the couple even flew in by helicopter during the London stop of her Cowboy Carter world tour earlier this summer to view the site.
