FANTASIA will come to Radlett when a house likened to something from a Walt Disney film is built in Newlands Road.

The huge house complete with servants' quarters was described by the Radlett Society and Green Belt Association as intrusive and oversized.

A spokesman said: "We described the design as fussy. If this house is built according to the plans it will have a positively Disneyesque appearance."

Despite the objection of the Society, which was set-up to safeguard the quality of Radlett's environment, the house was approved by Hertsmere Borough Council's planning committee on Thursday, October 18.

Councillors did express surprise at the plans which appeared before them.

They showed a home with powder rooms, a sauna, steam bath, lift, salon, numerous bathrooms, more than six bedrooms and bar.

Off the master bedroom lies a master sitting room. There are two kitchens and a gym.

Councillor Mark Silverman, a school teacher, said: "It's not my cup of tea, but it's also just outside my price range."

Councillor Stuart Nagler said the house would change the history of the entire road, but added the planning application had to be approved.

Under Government rules, plans cannot be rejected simply because the style is not to councillors' taste.

Other committee members liked the building. Councillor Mrs Cathy Ward said: "It certainly is a rather large house but I think in architectural terms it's something very, very adventurous.

"It's a beautiful building and I would certainly love to look round it when it's finished."

A house will be demolished to make way for the new development.

But there were none of the usual concerns at the committee meeting about greedy property developers.

The house is being custom made for a couple who have lived in Loom Lane, Radlett, for years.

The property agent said it was their dream home where they would live for the rest of their lives and in some luxury.

October 30, 2001 15:30