Lewis Capaldi’s off-grid dream rural retreat hits a snag as neighbour objects to 'oppressive' 3.5m fence

Lewis Capaldi has been granted planning permission for a sleek new recording studio on his £1.6 million countryside estate, but not all of his renovation dreams are going smoothly.

A neighbour has formally objected to parts of a separate application, particularly a towering boundary fence that allegedly reaches over 3.5 metres high.

The planning permission dispute highlights the fine balance between celebrity privacy and local community concerns in this tranquil corner of East Renfrewshire.

Celebrity renovation clash in the countryside

Capaldi’s countryside retreat at Castlehill Farm near Eaglesham was meant to be a serene escape from the spotlight.

But one neighbour, Mr Adam Dunwoodie of Castlehill Lodge, has objected to the fence surrounding the estate, calling it “oppressive” and “resembling a building site hoarding.”

The fence far surpasses permitted developments for fences in Scotland, which allows 2 metre high fences.

He says it overwhelms the view from every room but one, and notes that “the fence as it currently exists required planning approval on no less than four separate criteria” yet was built before approval was granted.

Studio success, fence in limbo

While the singer’s application for a detached recording studio, set near a pond and fitted with balconies, bookcases and storage, was approved without controversy, other changes remain unresolved.

His current application seeks permission for two single-storey extensions, a sun room variation, and a 1.8m high boundary fence, all of which are still under review.

The fence in question was erected 18 months ago, but a formal complaint has now raised issues about its unauthorised construction, excessive height, and proximity to a neighbouring property.

Fame meets friction in rural Scotland

The case brings into sharp focus the tension between fame and village life, where even global music stars are subject to local planning rules.

Mr Dunwoodie acknowledged Capaldi’s right to privacy but argued the fence is not “in keeping with the local environment,” and warned that hedging won’t solve its visual impact.

With planning officers yet to issue a decision on the contested elements, the story of Capaldi’s home renovation is becoming as much about negotiation as it is about restoration.