Grand Designs host admits ‘saddest ever’ home had him ‘involved’ for two causes
Grand Designs presenter Kevin McCloud has spoken out about his ‘concerns’ regarding the ‘saddest ever’ house on the show, and its embattled owner.
Chesil Cliff House in Devon, which gained notoriety on the Channel 4 series, has been mired in controversy and financial woes. The ambitious project initially had a budget of £1.8million and owner Edward Short expected it to be completed within 18 months.
However, after 12 years of turmoil, the stunning coastal mansion near Braunton, North Devon, ended up costing Short his marriage and left him with a staggering £7m debt. The property featured on the Channel 4 series in October 2019, when it was dubbed the ‘saddest ever’ episode.
READ MORE: ‘Saddest ever’ Grand Designs home suffers another costly blow as owner’s struggle continues
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And now, speaking from Grand Designs Live at London ExCel, McCloud said the infamous house did worry him.
(Image: Channel 4)
“I had more concerns about Ed’s wellbeing and his families wellbeing. But yes, I did have concerns about the house halfway through,” the famous presenter said.
Explaining exactly why, he added: “It was unfinished, and because he couldn’t proceed with works. The water was getting in and it cost him tens of thousands of pounds to remediate the steel work and glazing because it was damaged. The building wasn’t fully watertight and that’s a great shame.
”You go forwards to go backwards to go forwards again, but goodness me he (Ed) got there in the end didn’t he, so that’s great.”
(Image: ITV)
Earlier this year, the £10m cliffside property made headlines again when it was listed for sale through debt collectors for almost £5m less.
In February 2023, the unfinished cliffside pad was taken off an estate agent’s site due to discussions with a “serious buyer”.
However, they reportedly withdrew at the last minute, reports the Mirror.
(Image: Match Property)
Then, in January this year, it reappeared on the market via Law of Property Act receivers.
The property is still up for grabs four months later, with a hefty price tag of £5.25m with luxury estate agent Savills.
The mansion boasts three acres of land, an infinity pool and hot tub, and ample parking space. Plans for a helipad have also been approved, according to the listing.
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