Legendary Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood is reportedly facing a directive from Westminster Council to repaint the distinctive bright pink front door of his £7 million London home. The council has apparently ordered the 79-year-old musician to change the door to a "neutral tone," such as black, impacting the aesthetic of his Maida Vale property.
Wood, who shares the north-west London residence with his wife, Sally Humphreys, and their twin daughters, painted the door pink several years ago. Despite his front gate remaining black, the vibrant door attracted attention, leading to an official request for him to alter it. Following a retrospective application for council approval, Wood was reportedly informed that the door must be repainted black.
This isn't an isolated incident, as other residents in the conservation area have also been targeted by the council's enforcement. BAFTA-winning film continuity supervisor Angela Allen, a neighbour of Wood's, recounted being among the first to be told to repaint her blue door. Allen, known for her work on classic films like 'The African Queen', stated she was threatened with a substantial fine of £30,000 if she did not comply, despite having consulted the council about the colour five years prior.
A spokesperson for Westminster Council clarified that properties in the area form part of a "distinctive group of listed buildings within a conservation area." They advised residents that any changes affecting the historic character of these properties may require formal consent, and that applications can be submitted for consideration. The council's stance is that "incongruous" colours are believed to "harm the appearance and special architectural interest of their properties."
The situation highlights the ongoing tension between individual homeowner expression and the preservation of architectural heritage in designated conservation areas. While residents may wish to personalise their homes, local authorities are tasked with maintaining the historical and aesthetic integrity of listed buildings and their surroundings. This often leads to strict guidelines on external alterations, including paint colours.
Wood is currently preparing for the release of the Rolling Stones' 25th studio album, 'Foreign Tongues', and a headline solo tour. His gig at the Kentish Town Forum in London on 21 August is highly anticipated. The rocker's bandmate, Mick Jagger, also recently provided an update regarding the possibility of another Stones tour to support their new music.