Why an albino badger named Alberto threatens to scupper £25m restoration of stately home
The £25 million restoration of a stately home destroyed by fire is under threat because of claims it could destroy the natural habitat of an albino badger named Alberto.
The rare animal was rescued by wildlife volunteers in 2015 after being attacked by other badgers due to its unusual yellow colouring, and is said to now live with its family on the “quiet, undisturbed” Millground meadow in Dorset.
But plans have been submitted for a residential development on the site of 16th-century Parnham House, containing more than 80 senior homes, which would fund restoration work.
The Grade I listed property was destroyed in 2017 by a fire believed to have been deliberately started by former owner Michael Treichl. He was arrested on suspicion of arson but was found dead two months later.
The property’s new owner, former rave promoter James Perkins, has applied to build a “parkland” housing development on the site that would be inspired by King Charles’ model town of Poundbury, built on land in the Duchy of Cornwall.
As well as building 82 homes and two visitor accommodation, Mr Perkins plans to restore the south wing of the building as a “private home offering hospitality”.
The Dorset Natural Heritage Initiative, which is campaigning against the development, said: “The mill site meadow is not just a green space, it is also home to one of the UK’s rarest sights: a steady population of albino badgers.
“Beaminster first bonded with injured albino badger Alberto, who was rescued in 2015, but he is no longer alone.
“These pale, pink-eyed badgers now rely on the quiet, undisturbed habitats of the meadows for their survival, occasionally visiting homes along this stretch of the Brit River.
“The winners of the Covid lockdown were badgers and other wildlife, taking advantage of the resulting peace and quiet to explore and thrive in the reclaimed territories. “It now appears that peace may be shattered for good.
A spokesman for Parnham Park, which manages the home, said there was no evidence to support the claims.
Project manager Ed Grant said its ecological assessment was “thorough” and “robust.”
He said: “We really talk about otters on our website and that’s because there is evidence at the other end of the property on the shores of Lake Parnham.
“The area the application refers to is too shallow to allow otters to settle.
“There is also no evidence of badgers within 30 meters of the proposals.
“As always, we remain focused on saving this incredibly important John Nash Grade I listed building.”
