Much like Mohamed Hadid before him, British real estate developer Patrick Diter had to learn the hard way that obtaining the correct building permits is not merely a polite suggestion.
After spending more than a decade fighting to keep his mansion intact, in December, Diter was ordered by the highest French court to, within the next 18 months, destroy the custom-built property he calls Château Diter. According to the Daily Mail, starting in 2005, Diter built out the 32,000-square-foot Provence home, which is worth 48 million British pounds, about $66 million. The home features amenities such as two helipads, a saltwater swimming pool, a medieval cloister, and a bell tower, all situated among gardens, vineyards, and olive groves, according to a rental listing shared by the New York Post. The Mail reports that the 18-bedroom home was made from stonework and doors imported from Italy. Another listing boasts of Venetian chandeliers, frescoes, a library, screening room, wine-tasting room, and wine cellar. According to Air Mail, there’s also a 2,000-square-foot farmhouse on the property.
Per the Daily Mail, Diter claims he did have verbal permission from the mayor’s office to build an extension, but began construction before receiving the official paperwork. The real estate developer is also reportedly in hot water for paving a 2,000-foot driveway through environmentally protected lands. As a result, Air Mail reports, the new road funnels rainwater to the outskirts of the town where it causes flooding. As if all of that weren’t enough, Diter also seems to be having issues with his neighbors. The adjoining châteaux have apparently been leading this campaign championing the home’s destruction, claiming that Diter’s loud partying has made life in the idyllic setting a nightmare.
Regardless of the court’s ruling and his neighbors’ critiques, however, Diter has yet to resign himself to the idea of tearing down his manse. Per Air Mail, his lawyer has hinted that they are considering bringing the case before the European Court of Human Rights, as Diter apparently believes his human right to luxury real estate development has been violated.
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