Mr Doodle’s bungalow proposal in Dungeness sparks criticism from locals
Dungeness: So, there’s this artist, Mr Doodle, who’s trying to build a bungalow on the Kent coast, and it’s causing quite a stir. He wants to cover the place in his doodles, which sounds fun, right? But not everyone thinks so.
Locals are calling it a “vanity project” and say it doesn’t really fit with the vibe of Dungeness, which is known as “Britain’s only desert.” They feel like it lacks any real connection to the area.
Some folks even compared it to “Disneyfication,” saying that while artists have always left their mark here, this feels more like a flashy statement than a genuine tribute to the landscape.
There are also worries about wildlife getting caught up in the metal designs. One resident pointed out that curious animals might get stuck and hurt, which is a valid concern.
Lydd Town Council has also thrown in their two cents, saying the metal facade doesn’t match the historical feel of Dungeness, especially since it’s a site of special scientific interest.
But the architects behind the project, Holloway Studios, argue that the design is thoughtful and fits the area. They say the rusted look of the facade is inspired by the existing structures along the coast.
Guy Holloway, the architect, defended the doodles, claiming they’ll be subtle and similar in size to another home Mr Doodle has in Dungeness, which hasn’t caused any wildlife issues.
The plans also include exposed railway carriages, solar panels, and a garden that supports local wildlife. Some supporters think the new design is a big improvement and fits well with the sensitive site.
All this will be up for discussion at the Folkestone and Hythe District Council meeting on Tuesday. It’ll be interesting to see how it all plays out!
