Kaylah Walton
Neighbors of Ed Sheeran in Suffolk are irritated with the singer for allegedly using his wildlife pond as a swimming pool, contrary to prior assurances given to local authorities.
An Instagram video posted by Sheeran, showing him diving into the pond on his £3.7 million estate, triggered the controversy.
The pond was initially approved by the Suffolk Coastal District Council as a conservation feature to support wildlife and provide a habitat for various creatures.
Sheeran’s planning documents stated that the kidney-shaped pool would not be used for recreational activities like swimming. However, the addition of a jetty and steps in 2017 raised concerns among neighbors, prompting an investigation by the council.
Despite these worries, in 2019, the council found no evidence of a planning violation, maintaining the pond’s classification as a wildlife feature.
Sheeran later successfully had the swimming ban lifted, arguing that the restriction was unjustified. However, recent footage of him swimming in the pond has reignited discontent among locals.
A neighbor, speaking on condition of anonymity, criticized Sheeran for allegedly disregarding the pond’s original purpose.
Expressing disappointment, the neighbor told the Daily Mail, “What you have shown me there is him taking the mick. It is exactly like we said it was going to be.” Other neighbors echoed these sentiments, labeling the pond a “sham” and a source of disruption.
Ongoing Disputes with Neighbors
Sheeran, aged 33, has been embroiled in continued conflicts with his neighbors since redeveloping his estate, known as ‘Sheeranville,’ into an elaborate property featuring a chapel, pub, tree house, and underground music room.
While some residents, like Tony Robinson, have become more tolerant of the singer, others remain unhappy with the changes Sheeran has implemented in the area.
In response to the backlash, Sheeran has stood by his pond’s usage, asserting that it primarily serves as a wildlife feature, even though he occasionally swims in it.
He has also emphasized the positive environmental impact of the pond, mentioning how it has attracted more wildlife to the vicinity.
