Seaside Village Residents Speak Out Against Hollywood Celebrities’ Property Purchases
In a picturesque seaside village called Mawgan Porth, located just four miles north of Newquay, there’s a brewing debate about the influx of luxury properties owned by Hollywood A-listers. The village, known for its tranquil charm, has seen the construction of million-pound homes that some locals consider to be out of touch with the area’s traditional character.
One of the latest additions to this village is none other than Aquaman star Jason Momoa, who now calls the untouched bay his home. Not far from Momoa, Oscar-winner Cate Blanchett and musician Chris Martin have also taken up residence. These high-profile figures have brought attention to the village but also raised concerns about the changing landscape.
The issue at hand has sparked frustration among the long-standing residents of Mawgan Porth. Some residents feel that the well-off visitors and property owners are disconnected from the realities of countryside living. For instance, despite choosing to live in the rustic countryside, there have been instances where these newcomers complain about the smell of cow dung.
Traditional 1930s bungalows, which once defined the area’s architecture, have been replaced by opulent mansions constructed by second-home developers. This shift has led to local voices being raised against the alteration of the village’s identity. Susan Schofield, a 65-year-old farmer who has been part of the community since 1973, expressed her exasperation with complaints about the smell from visitors who seem unaware of the rural surroundings.
Another local, Margaret Behr, aged 64, shared her feelings of isolation during the winter months due to the increasing number of second-home owners. She noted that developers often outbid locals when properties become available, making it difficult for those with deep roots in the village to remain part of the community.
Census data reveals that Cornwall is a favored destination for second homes in the UK, with 6,080 holiday homes catering to 14,230 people. Amid the rise of luxury properties, concerns have been voiced by Anthony Fuller, 93, who believes that the modern square homes being built are not suitable for the village’s traditional atmosphere.
Celebrities like Cate Blanchett, Jamie Dornan, and Stanley Tucci have chosen to make Mawgan Porth their second home. While their presence adds a touch of glamour to the village, it has also brought attention to the ongoing changes that the local community is grappling with.
As the village navigates its evolving identity, the clash between luxurious properties and traditional charm continues to be a topic of conversation among residents. The conflict between new and old, modern and traditional, highlights the challenges faced by many small communities undergoing transformation.