Controversial Construction
Neighbours in Edinburgh's plush Morningside are angry after Lisa and Craig Charters, who won £33 million on the National Lottery, walked away from plans to build a £5 million mega mansion. The couple upset residents last year when they sought planning permission to demolish the existing bungalow and replace it with a "Grand Designs" style property.
Empty for Over a Year
The three-bedroom bungalow has been sitting empty for more than 12 months, causing frustration among neighbours. The Charters, who have now put the unoccupied building up for sale, received approval from Edinburgh City Council for their controversial scheme but decided not to proceed.
Outraged Neighbours
Residents lodged 63 letters of objection to the pricey plan, expressing their discontent with the proposed mansion. One resident expressed disappointment over the delay in construction, stating, "It’s such a shame because it is a perfectly-good home being left empty." The property has been dubbed "The Little House on the Prairie" by locals.
Lottery Winners' Journey
Lisa Charters' parents won £33 million on the National Lottery in 2016, and she used a share of the winnings, along with her husband, to travel the world. In July 2021, they purchased the bungalow in Edinburgh for £200,000 over the asking price.
Planning Controversy
The initial plans for the mansion faced objections from residents, leading to revisions that reduced the building's height and moved it away from a neighbor's property. Planning officials from City of Edinburgh Council even cited access to public transport as a reason for approving the new scheme. However, residents expressed their disbelief, stating that the couple is unlikely to use buses.
HOAR approached Mr and Mrs Charters for comment.
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