Couple’s Historic Mansion Value Soars, But Landslides Block Sale

A couple who purchased a historic mansion for just £9,000 (€10,338) in 1971 now face significant challenges selling the property, despite its current valuation of £1.2 million (€1.3 million). Charles and Patricia Lester, both accomplished fashion designers, have been grappling with regular landslides and leaks from the nearby Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, which runs perilously close to their home in Wales.

The couple acquired Llanfoist House, a stunning Grade II listed property believed to date back to around 1690, in September 1971. Over the decades, its value has increased dramatically, yet the Lesters feel “stuck in limbo” due to ongoing geological issues. The canal, located approximately 70 feet above the mansion on a steep bank, has a history of causing serious leaks and landslides.

The 1975 landslide was particularly devastating, nearly claiming the lives of the Lesters. Mr. Lester recounted that they heard a loud noise before witnessing a torrent of water, rocks, and trees cascading toward them. “I remember my body just froze,” he said, noting that the roots of the largest trees created a makeshift dam that saved them.

The couple asserts that their home has become virtually unsellable due to the constant threat posed by the canal. They have attempted to sell their property for over a decade, only to face setbacks. An offer of £850,000 (€976,412), nearly half a million below the estimated value, fell through as they were unable to secure certification regarding the property’s safety.

The Lesters have criticized the Canal and River Trust (CRT), which took over the state-owned British Waterways in 2012. They allege that the trust has neglected maintenance responsibilities, contributing to the dangerous conditions surrounding their home. Mr. Lester noted that many of their complaints have gone unaddressed over the years.

In 2014, further issues arose when deep cracks appeared in the banks above their property. Mr. Lester expressed concerns about the potential for catastrophic failure, stating, “One of our engineers said that if the canal came down it could sweep us away.”

Mrs. Lester, who has experienced ongoing sleepless nights due to the stress of the situation, articulated the emotional toll. “It’s a nightmare,” she said. “You become really, really stressed, not knowing if you’re going to be bankrupt or even killed.”

The couple had previously sought legal action against the CRT, using their housing insurance policy to cover legal costs. However, facing a well-resourced legal team from the CRT, they found themselves unable to continue their fight. Mr. Lester lamented, “They just ran us out of money.”

In response to the couple’s concerns, a spokesperson for the CRT stated, “The canal is an engineering marvel from the industrial age that attracts visitors from around the world. Our charity works hard to keep it open and navigable for people to enjoy and for the benefit of wildlife.” The CRT assured that it would maintain its program of repairs and monitoring of the canal’s embankments.

Throughout their successful careers, Charles and Patricia Lester have designed couture garments and interior fabrics for over 50 years. Their work has been displayed in prestigious institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and the Phoenix Art Museum. Their contributions to the fashion world have garnered recognition from notable figures, including a visit from King Charles and Queen Camilla in 2015.

Despite their artistic achievements, the Lesters now find themselves in a challenging situation, hoping for resolution as they navigate the complexities of their beloved yet troubled home.