When Vicky Curtis-Cresswell won a £6 million mansion in Blakeney, Norfolk, through an Omaze and Comic Relief raffle in March, she dreamed of moving in immediately.
But now, nearly seven months later, she still hasn’t received the keys.
The future of her prize, and her plans to settle her family, hangs on the outcome of a local council decision over whether the house gains planning permission.
Planning problems delay Omaze ownership
The mansion, named Larkfields, was found to have multiple unapproved features, which meant the Omaze home was refused planning permission.
North Norfolk District Council had recommended approval for a retrospective planning application, but the matter has been called in for review by the council’s Development Committee, scheduled for 16 October.
Councillor Victoria Holliday, who filed the call-in, has expressed concerns over the removal of distinctive pine trees and the loss of a wildflower meadow.
She described the developments as “out of keeping with the wild and unspoilt nature” of the coastal property, which sits within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Omaze responds
Omaze has confirmed it will cover any costs associated with regularising the property and continues to work with the council.
A company spokesperson told Homebuilding & Renovating: “Omaze has taken every possible step to bring the issue to a swift resolution, including submitting a retrospective planning application to address the recommendations made by North Norfolk District Council.
"We guarantee no house winner would ever have to incur any costs to remedy historical planning issues, and all house prizes are transferred with good and marketable title.”
Winner’s plans on hold
Curtis-Cresswell, a former Miss Wales finalist, had hoped to sell the Norfolk mansion and buy a family home in South Wales.
Those plans remain on hold until the committee makes its decision, leaving her £6 million prize in limbo.
As the 16 October council meeting approaches, the resolution of this high-profile planning dispute will determine not just the fate of Larkfields, but the immediate future of its prize winner.
