Ex-Fund Manager's Manor Parties Spark Village Uproar in Norfolk
A 17th-century manor in Saxlingham Nethergate, Norfolk, has become the center of controversy due to noisy parties. Villagers are fighting against the property's use as a party venue, with a crucial hearing approaching.
In the tranquil village of Saxlingham Nethergate, located 9 miles south of Norwich, a conflict has erupted between residents and the owner of a historic property. Darren Swayne, a 52-year-old former fund manager, stands accused of disrupting village life by renting out his 17th-century manor for boisterous gatherings.
Hill House, a Grade II-listed building owned by Swayne, has become a popular destination for stag and hen parties, accommodating up to 25 guests. The property's grounds, spanning three acres, can host events for up to 200 people - a significant number considering the village's population of approximately 700.
Villagers claim they have endured over a decade of disturbances, including loud music and drunken behavior. The situation has led to the formation of a campaign group, Saxlingham Tired of Noisy Event, opposing the property's use as a party venue.
In 2023, South Norfolk Council ruled that Swayne was acting unlawfully by hosting these events. However, he appealed the decision in early 2024, seeking a certificate of lawfulness to continue operating. This planning device would allow him to use the property as a party venue, arguing it has been used in this manner for over 10 years.
A hearing with the Planning Inspectorate is scheduled for September 3, 2024, where Swayne will present his case for hosting paying guests and events at Hill House.
Bryn Austin, a member of the campaign group, expressed the villagers' frustration: "Previous events have blighted residents with noise and raucous drunken visitors disrespecting the quiet setting." Another group member, Jo Kershaw, added, "We are being asked to surrender the quiet enjoyment of our homes to allow others to make profit at our expense."
The 6,500 sq ft manor boasts luxurious amenities, including two lounges, a retro games room, a library bar, and a 10ft cinema screen. The grounds feature a hot tub, tennis court, and wood-fired pizza oven, making it an attractive venue for large gatherings.
Swayne maintains that Hill House has been operating since October 2007, providing invoices and reviews as evidence. However, planning officials noted that detailed guest logs only began in 2012, with field-based events starting in September 2019.
"We are very proud that Hill House is a top destination for families and some of the world's most exciting companies, as well as being available for local use. People travel for miles to come to stay with us and enjoy valuable time together."
As the planning inspectorate hearing approaches, villagers hope for a resolution that will restore peace to their community. The case highlights the delicate balance between preserving rural tranquility and accommodating modern business ventures in historic properties.
