South African billionaire Koos Bekker is turning a corner of Somerset into what locals call 'one man's estate' with his expanding luxury hotel, The Newt. The Naspers chairman, worth about £3bn, has been buying up thousands of acres around Bruton and Castle Cary, igniting a row with residents over the scale of his project.
The Expansion of a Billionaire's Vision
When Bekker purchased the old country estate in Somerset, residents initially saw it as a positive sign. The manicured gardens, featuring apple trees twisted into perfect shapes using the espalier method, suggested a bright future. But as Bekker's company, Emily Estate (UK) Limited, continued to acquire land—more than 2,700 acres according to Guardian analysis—tensions rose. The estate now includes high street businesses, former farmhouses, and local pubs.
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Local Backlash and Concerns
Locals have voiced concerns over the vast expansion, the use of pesticides, and branding deals they describe as 'brazen.' One such deal saw the local train station renamed after Bekker's hotel, The Newt in Somerset. In local pubs, where cider fuels conversation, the sentiment is far from welcoming.
| Acquisition | Details |
|---|---|
| Land | Over 2,700 acres |
| Businesses | Deli, beauty parlour, pubs |
| Branding | Train station named after hotel |
Key Takeaways
- Koos Bekker has acquired over 2,700 acres in Somerset.
- Local residents are concerned about the scale and impact of the expansion.
- Branding deals, including renaming a train station, have been called 'brazen.'
- The estate includes various local businesses and properties.
FAQ
Who is Koos Bekker?
Who is Koos Bekker?
Koos Bekker is a South African billionaire and chairman of Naspers, one of the world's largest technology firms, with a net worth of about £3bn.
What is The Newt in Somerset?
What is The Newt in Somerset?
The Newt in Somerset is a luxury hotel and estate owned by Koos Bekker, featuring manicured gardens and various local businesses.
Why are locals upset?
Why are locals upset?
Locals are upset over the vast expansion of the estate, the use of pesticides, and branding deals such as renaming the local train station after the hotel.
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