Why an albino badger named Alberto threatens to scupper £25m restoration of stately house | EUROtoday

A £25million restoration of a stately house destroyed by fireplace is below menace over claims it might destroy the pure habitat of an albino badger named Alberto.

The uncommon animal was rescued by wildlife volunteers in 2015 after it was attacked by different badgers because of its uncommon blonde color, and is now mentioned to be residing with its household within the “quiet, undisturbed” Millground meadow in Dorset.

However, plans have been submitted for a housing growth on the grounds of the Sixteenth-century Parnham House, which incorporates greater than 80 high-end houses, which might fund the restoration work.

The Grade I listed property was destroyed in 2017 by a fireplace, which is believed to have been intentionally began by its former proprietor, Michael Treichl. He was arrested on suspicion of arson however was discovered lifeless two months later.

The property’s new proprietor, former rave promoter James Perkins, has utilized to construct a “parkland” housing property within the grounds, which might be impressed by Poundbury, King Charles’ mannequin city constructed on Duchy of Cornwall land.

Mr Perkins intends to construct 82 houses and two customer lodging lodges, in addition to restore the constructing’s south wing as a “private home with a hospitality offering”.

The Dorset Natural Heritage Initiative, which is campaigning in opposition to the event, mentioned: “Millground meadow isn’t only a inexperienced area, it’s house to one of many UK’s rarest sights: a daily inhabitants of albino badgers.

“Beaminster first grew hooked up to Alberto, an injured albino badger which was rescued again in 2015, however he’s not alone.

“These pale, pink-eyed badgers now depend on the meadow’s quiet, undisturbed habitat to outlive — often visiting the homes dotted alongside this stretch of the River Brit.

“Badgers and different wildlife had been the winners within the Covid lockdowns, profiting from the resultant peace and quiet to discover and thrive of their reclaimed territories. It now appears to be like like that peace may very well be shattered perpetually.

A spokesperson for Parnham Park, which manages the home, mentioned there was no proof to assist the claims.

Project supervisor Ed Grant mentioned its ecological evaluation was “thorough” and “robust”.

He mentioned: “We do indeed talk about otters on our website, and this is because there is evidence at the other end of the estate by Parnham Lake.

“The space the appliance refers to is way too shallow for otters to ascertain themselves.

“There is also no evidence of badgers within 30m of the proposals.

“As ever, we stay centered on saving this extremely vital John Nash Grade I listed constructing.”