Television icon Ant McPartlin has made a significant property move, acquiring a lavish new-build mansion in Surrey for a staggering £10 million. This acquisition follows a contentious planning dispute at his previous Wimbledon residence, where proposals to remove protected trees sparked local opposition.
A Fresh Start in Surrey's Leafy Enclaves
The I'm A Celebrity presenter, aged 50, has relocated with his wife, Anne-Marie Corbett, 47, and their young son, Wilder, to a tranquil village in Surrey. This shift marks a departure from their London-based life, opting for the serene surroundings of one of the county's prime private estates. The property sits within an acre of grounds, offering ample privacy and space for the growing family.
Behind the Move: Unpacking the Wimbledon Controversy
This relocation occurs just two months after the sale of their Wimbledon home, valued at £6 million, which they had occupied since 2019. The decision to move appears linked to a planning disagreement that garnered considerable attention. Local authorities had initially granted permission for the removal of six trees—including four cypress trees, a Weymouth pine, and a yew—from the Wimbledon property.
However, neighbours strongly objected, arguing that the trees were protected under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) and that there was no valid justification for their removal. One resident notably criticised the proposal as being driven by "the personal whim of the applicant." In response, a revised plan was developed to retain the trees and design the property around them, aiming to address community concerns.
Despite these efforts, Ant and Anne-Marie ultimately chose to sell the Wimbledon home. A spokesperson previously clarified that the move was motivated by family reasons rather than the planning issues, though the timing suggests a desire for a fresh start away from the dispute.
Financial Firepower and Local Reactions
Ant McPartlin's substantial investment in the Surrey mansion is supported by his lucrative career. He recently secured a £30 million contract with ITV alongside his long-time presenting partner, Declan Donnelly. The stamp duty alone on the new property is reported to be approximately £1 million, highlighting the scale of the transaction.
Local residents in Surrey have noted that the sale sets a record for the area, becoming a focal point of community gossip. One inhabitant remarked, "It is all anyone is gossiping about," while another observed that Ant appears content and approachable, though the area is accustomed to celebrity presence. The estate's exclusivity is expected to minimise future neighbourly conflicts, contrasting with the tensions experienced in Wimbledon.
Comparative Moves and Family Dynamics
Interestingly, Declan Donnelly has also expanded his property portfolio, purchasing his third home on a single London street. Meanwhile, Ant and Anne-Marie's family life continues to evolve; they began dating in 2018 after Ant's divorce from Lisa Armstrong, whom he married in 2006, and welcomed their son in May 2024.
The former Wimbledon residence was an impressive three-storey structure featuring five reception rooms, a cinema, a sun room, an open-plan kitchen, and dedicated study and office spaces. Reports indicate that the couple invested hundreds of thousands of pounds into renovating that property, making their decision to move somewhat surprising to insiders. However, with significant financial resources at their disposal, they are poised to customise their Surrey mansion to their exact preferences.
This property transition underscores the complexities of high-profile homeownership, where personal desires, community relations, and substantial financial investments intersect. Ant McPartlin's move to Surrey represents not only a change of address but a strategic step towards a more harmonious living environment for his family.
