How a South African billionaire is turning a corner of Somerset into ‘one man’s estate’
Koos Bekker’s Newt estate encompasses luxury hotels, pubs and high street business, with local concerns including flooding When South African billionaire Koos Bekker bought an old country estate in a sleepy corner of Somerset to turn it into a luxury hotel, residents thought it was a sign their area was on the up. Walking through his peaceful manicured gardens, which feature a maze of apple trees…
South African billionaire Koos Bekker has transformed a rural corner of Somerset into a luxurious estate called "Newt." The property, encompassing luxury hotels, pubs and high street businesses, has been a source of local concerns. Residents have raised issues like flooding, pesticide use, and branding deals that have led to the local train station being named after Bekker's hotel, the Newt in Somerset.
With a net worth of approximately £3bn and being the chair of Naspers, Bekker's influence extends beyond the estate into the local Somerset villages, sparking tensions. While some residents have welcomed the investment, others feel that the Newt's expansion, including the renaming of the local train station and high prices for farm produce, have altered the area's character.
Issues like increased flooding, the use of pesticides, and potential harm to local wildlife have led to complaints and discussions among residents.
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