Controversy Over Spa Pool Demolition
Captain Tom Moore’s daughter, Hannah Ingram-Moore, is embroiled in a dispute as she attempts to prevent the demolition of a spa pool at her £1.2 million mansion, labeled a ‘monstrosity’ by neighbors.
Planning officials recently visited her property to assess the situation.
Site Visit by Officials
In drone footage, Hannah Ingram-Moore is seen showing planning officials around her property in Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire.
The officials, accompanied by a suited man, examine the unapproved spa pool, which has been at the center of the dispute.
This visit is part of her efforts to halt the demolition order.
Origins of the Spa Pool
The controversy began when Hannah Ingram-Moore and her husband, Colin, applied for permission to construct a Captain Tom Foundation Building on their property. While the L-shaped building was approved, a subsequent application for a larger C-shaped structure containing a spa pool was denied by the planning authority.
Public Opinion and Demands for Demolition
Several neighbors, including Jilly Bozdogan, voiced their disapproval of the spa pool, with one describing it as a ‘monstrosity.’
This led to the issuance of an enforcement notice by Central Bedfordshire Council, demanding the demolition of the unauthorized spa pool.
Future of the Captain Tom Foundation
During the Planning Inspectorate hearing, it was revealed that the Captain Tom Foundation, which raised £38 million for NHS Charities Together, would be shut down following a Charity Commission investigation.
The investigation focuses on potential conflicts of interest related to the charity’s operations.
Battle Over Spa Pool’s Purpose
In an attempt to defend the spa pool, Hannah Ingram-Moore insisted that it was intended for local elderly people’s rehabilitation sessions, not for the family’s benefit.
This claim is contested by Central Bedfordshire Council, which maintains that the building exceeded the approved size and should be demolished.
Hearing and Future Decision
The Planning Inspectorate hearing involved discussions about the spa pool and its purpose.
The Inspector is set to make a site visit to assess the situation in person. A written decision regarding the spa pool’s fate will be issued later this year.
Charity Funds and Controversy
The family of Captain Tom Moore also faced scrutiny over funds raised by the late war hero.
Questions were raised about the family’s handling of the money and whether they should return it to donors.
The controversy emerged after it was disclosed that Hannah Ingram-Moore had earned a salary and received expenses related to her role as interim CEO of the Captain Tom Foundation.
Book Profits and Charity Claims
Furthermore, there was debate about the profits from Captain Tom’s books, with some asserting that the money made from book sales should have gone to charity.
The family argued that people purchasing the books were not explicitly informed that their money would support charitable causes.
The prologue of Captain Tom’s autobiography raised questions about the intended use of book profits.
Spa and Pool Complex
The family also expressed regret over building a controversial spa and pool complex at their mansion.
They hoped to win an appeal to keep the structure, even as the costs of construction increased.
Local estate agents estimated that the complex’s price could have been around £200,000.
The family insisted that Captain Tom wanted them to retain the profits from his books, and they were not obliged to donate the money to charity.
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