In an ambitious move that underscores the soaring property market in Poole Harbour, investment banker Michael Dennis and his wife Angela have secured planning permission to demolish a recently purchased mansion, which they acquired for a record £15 million. The couple plans to replace the five-bedroom Arts & Crafts-style home with a bespoke six-bedroom residence that promises extravagant amenities and a modern design.
A New Vision for Poole Harbour
The Dennis family, who have made their mark in the financial world as partners at Ares Credit Group, are embarking on a project that speaks to their opulent lifestyle and innovative vision. Their new home will feature an indoor swimming pool, a sauna, a gym, and a yoga room, all situated on the lower ground floor. The main level will host a spacious kitchen, a day room, a living room, and an office, alongside a grand entrance hall that is sure to impress visitors.
The upper floors will house six bedrooms, each equipped with private balconies, while the master suite will offer luxury in the form of his-and-her dressing rooms and en suite bathrooms. Additionally, the extensive outdoor space will include a sun terrace, a boathouse, a slipway providing direct access to the harbour, and a jetty.
A Controversial Past
This property has not been without its share of controversy. Prior to the Dennis family’s acquisition, a property developer sought to replace the mansion with three identical houses, each valued at around £9 million. The proposal sparked outrage among local residents, who feared that such developments would compromise the character of the neighbourhood and infringe upon their privacy.
However, the Dennis family’s plans appear to have garnered a more favourable reception. Their revised proposal has received letters of support from neighbours, who praised the design as “thoroughly and beautifully executed.” The local planning authority noted that this development is seen as an improvement over previous proposals, with many believing it will enhance the area’s aesthetic appeal.
A Commitment to Community Engagement
In their submission to the BCP Council, the Dennis family’s planning agent highlighted their proactive engagement with neighbours. They sought input on their designs, which were well-received and appreciated for their traditional architectural style compared to the more modern, flat-roofed homes that have become prevalent along the waterfront.
The planning agent’s report noted that the new house would maintain the existing footprint and orientation of the original mansion, thereby preserving the visual continuity of Pearce Avenue, an area known for its stunning views and luxury homes. The proposed design aims to blend seamlessly with the neighbourhood, echoing the traditional aesthetic that has characterised this exclusive location.
A Glimpse into Luxury Living
The previous owner of the Poole mansion, Louise McGlinn, heiress to the Body Shop fortune, made headlines when she sold the property for £15 million in 2024, setting a record for the area. McGlinn, whose father Ian McGlinn famously provided the initial funding for Anita Roddick’s Body Shop venture, purchased the home in 2008 for £9.4 million. The impressive sale price highlights the escalating demand for luxury properties in Poole Harbour, particularly in sought-after locations like Pearce Avenue.
The new residence, while expected to retain a similar valuation, will include an additional six-bedroom detached house on the property, further enhancing its status as a luxurious family estate.
Why it Matters
The ambitions of the Dennis family not only reflect the growing trend of high-net-worth individuals investing in exclusive real estate but also underscore the delicate balance between development and community concerns in affluent neighbourhoods. As the demand for luxury homes continues to rise, the transformation of this property could set a precedent for future developments in Poole Harbour, illustrating how innovative design can harmonise with local heritage while meeting the demands of modern living.
