How a South African billionaire is turning a corner of Somerset into ‘one man’s estate’
South African billionaire Koos Bekker is facing backlash from local residents in Somerset, England, over the rapid expansion of his luxury estate. Locals are concerned about the commercialization of their town, including the rebranding of public infrastructure and environmental impacts.
Why it matters
The story highlights the tension between wealthy private investment and the preservation of local community identity and public resources.
The Newt is a beloved destination for celebrities such as Charli XCX and Kate Moss. The Newt is a beloved destination for celebrities such as Charli XCX and Kate Moss. The super-rich How a South African billionaire is turning a corner of Somerset into ‘one man’s estate’ Koos Bekker’s Newt estate encompasses luxury hotels, pubs and high street business, with local concerns including flooding
Prefer the Guardian on Google When South African billionaire Koos Bekker bought an old country estate in a sleepy corner of Somerset to turn it into a luxury hotel, residents thought it was a sign their area was on the up.
Walking through his peaceful manicured gardens, which feature a maze of apple trees twisted into perfect shapes using the espalier method, it’s easy to feel that all is well in this quiet, picturesque pocket of England .
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