Ellen DeGeneres Seeks Approval for Long-Term Stables at Flood-Hit Cotswolds Estate
Former US talk show host Ellen DeGeneres is looking to cement her presence in the UK by submitting plans for the permanent installation of horse stables at her £22 million Cotswolds property. The estate, Kitesbridge Farm near Burford, which Ellen and her partner Portia de Rossi purchased for £15 million in 2024, has undergone significant renovations costing a reported £7.5 million.
However, the couple’s tenure at the property was cut short after less than a month due to flooding from the River Windrush, which meanders through the 43-acre site. This prompted them to seek more suitable accommodation to facilitate Portia’s passion for horses. Despite being listed for sale last July, the property failed to attract a buyer, leading to reports of a substantial price reduction and its removal from the market under the condition of a sale.
Now, new planning documents have revealed a clear ambition from the couple to make the Cotswolds estate their “long-term home,” contingent on the approval of their new stables.
Plans for Equestrian Facilities
A design and access statement submitted to West Oxfordshire District Council outlines the applicants’ desire to establish Kitesbridge Farm as a permanent residence. The statement highlights that while extensive renovations to the main house have been successfully completed, there is currently no provision for the care and training of horses, a significant passion for one of the applicants.
The current planning application seeks to address this by demolishing an existing agricultural building and constructing a new, purpose-built stable in its place. This initiative is intended to accommodate their horses and associated equestrian needs in a manner that is as sensitive to the surrounding environment as possible.
A Home for Horse Lovers
Ellen DeGeneres has previously voiced the necessity of a home equipped with equestrian facilities. In an earlier statement, she explained, “When we decided to live here full time, we knew that Portia couldn’t live without her horses. We needed a home that had a horse facility and pastures for them.” The planning application formally identifies the pair as “horse owners” requiring dedicated stabling.
The proposed structure is designed to house two loose boxes and provide ample storage for all necessary equestrian equipment within a single, thoughtfully designed building.
Design and Integration with the Landscape
The architectural drawings indicate a vernacular design, intended to harmonise with the existing estate. The proposed stables will be constructed from local stone, featuring a pitched tile roof, and are envisioned to appear as a natural extension of the existing building cluster.
The application further elaborates on the careful consideration given to the design and siting of the new facility. It states that no nearby neighbours will be impacted by the construction, thus avoiding any adverse effects on residential amenity.
Several design options were explored, including larger American barn-style structures and smaller, U-shaped byre ranges. However, the American barn was deemed too imposing and likely to dominate the aesthetic of the existing buildings. Conversely, a U-shaped byre range was considered insufficient in terms of cover and practicality.
The chosen “in-between” option is a single-range stone building, built in the local vernacular style. This approach aims to seamlessly blend the new structure with the existing architecture.
Ellen’s representatives emphasised that the building’s location has been meticulously chosen to align centrally with the granary barn to the north and the byre range to the south. This strategic placement is intended to create a visually pleasing viewpoint upon arrival at the property.
The design incorporates sufficient width for stabling and cross-ties, with a tack room at one end and feed and storage facilities at the other. A first-floor level, accessible via external steps, is also included. This space, resulting from the building’s design, is intended for hayloft or general storage and is not considered central to the primary function of the application.
A Plea for Swift Approval
The planning statement includes a direct appeal for planners at the council to expedite the approval process. It concludes by reiterating the sensitive design, siting, and orientation of the stable building, aimed at minimising visual impact and integrating it cohesively with the existing estate.
The applicants believe the proposed traditionally designed stone building will not only sit more harmoniously within the landscape but also appear more integrated with the adjacent building group when compared to the existing agricultural shed slated for demolition. They express confidence that the scheme will significantly enhance the enjoyment and amenity of the site without causing any considerable harm, particularly with the removal of the current shed. Accordingly, they hope the application will receive officer approval.
As of the latest reports, no representations or public comments have been received regarding the application. The West Oxfordshire Council is expected to determine the application at a future date.
