The £3 million Omaze “James Bond hideaway” is situated in Devon, six feet from a cliff’s edge: How the winner was informed of “coastal erosion” and the “dream property” has been vacant since 2021 despite his request for a monetary payout

The lavish £3 million residence known as the Omaze ‘James Bond hideaway’ in Devon has remained unoccupied since 2021 when the winner was informed of the perilous state of the clifftop location, just six feet from the edge. Glen Elmy, a foundry worker from Walsall, secured ownership of the property situated in Combe Martin Bay. Astonishingly, within a mere three days of moving in, he surrendered the property’s keys due to concerns about coastal erosion jeopardizing the clifftop foundation. Consequently, Elmy reportedly returned the keys to Omaze, the organization behind the competition, and allegedly requested a monetary settlement equivalent to the property’s £3 million value.

In October 2021, Glen Elmy took up residence in the opulent James Bond-style mansion, marveling at the picturesque vistas of Combe Martin Bay along the north Devon coast. However, his euphoria was short-lived as he swiftly learned about the potential threat of coastal erosion that endangered the property’s stability. This prompted him to relinquish the property to Omaze, allegedly in exchange for a financial compensation amounting to the mansion’s value.

Subsequently, the mansion has remained unoccupied for nearly two years, while local residents speculate that it could succumb to coastal erosion within a span of five to ten years. The house, colloquially referred to as Stealth House, was purportedly acquired by Omaze Properties LLC for £3.8 million in June 2021, a few months ahead of Elmy’s occupation. Consequently, the legal ownership transfer to Elmy might not have occurred.

Despite local curiosity and concern, the mansion stands desolate, guarded by imposing metal gates and an unresponsive intercom. Neighbors observe that there has been no indication of habitation. The mansion’s proximity to the cliff edge has raised worries about its insurability and structural safety due to the looming threat of coastal erosion. This unease has been amplified by signs warning about falling rocks in the vicinity.

The property had raised concerns even before Elmy’s occupation, as locals speculated about the safety of a structure built so close to the cliff’s edge. Residents voiced their apprehensions online, predicting that erosion could ultimately render the mansion unsafe or even cause parts of it to collapse into the sea.

Designed by renowned architect Guy Greenfield, the property encompasses five bedrooms, six bathrooms, multiple living spaces, and nearly an acre of land. It features a modern infinity pool offering breathtaking ocean views and is conveniently located near the coastal town of Barnstaple. Additionally, it provides easy access to Combe Martin Beach and several well-known surfing spots.

Glen Elmy, who secured the mansion through the Omaze Million Pound House Draw, won while visiting his parents’ house. With over three decades of service at a Walsall foundry, the foundry worker’s life took an unexpected turn with this prize.

MailOnline has attempted to reach out to Omaze for their input on the matter.

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