Andy Lee and Rebecca Harding slammed by neighbours for ‘horrendous’ renovations of their Melbourne mansion as the couple swan off to New York: ‘He has lost a lot of community goodwill’

Andy Lee and Rebecca Harding slammed by neighbours for 'horrendous' renovations of their Melbourne mansion as the couple swan off to New York: 'He has lost a lot of community goodwill'

As someone who has lived through multiple renovations, I can empathize with Andy and Rebecca’s ambitious project. Restoring a 150-year-old mansion is no small feat! However, it seems they might need to work on their community relations a bit more. The grumbles from neighbors about noise and traffic are common during renovations, but constant complaints could potentially delay the project.

Andy Lee and Rebecca Harding have been slammed over their ambitious $5million mansion renovation.

The comedian, aged 42, along with his 34-year-old partner, are actively working on renovating an old, neglected mansion that’s over 150 years old, located near the river in Hawthorn, Melbourne.

As a couple revels in wintertime New York, those nearby the construction site find themselves enduring an extremely unpleasant level of noise.

One neighbor shared with the CBD column of the Sydney Morning Herald that the ongoing construction noise had significantly diminished the couple’s standing within the community.

‘The noise is just horrendous,’ the disgruntled neighbour told the publication.

‘Some residents just leave – they go away for a week at a time and come back on the weekend.’

Andy Lee and Rebecca Harding slammed by neighbours for 'horrendous' renovations of their Melbourne mansion as the couple swan off to New York: 'He has lost a lot of community goodwill'

Andy Lee and Rebecca Harding slammed by neighbours for 'horrendous' renovations of their Melbourne mansion as the couple swan off to New York: 'He has lost a lot of community goodwill'

Additionally, the article mentioned a persistent construction racket lasting for 26 weeks that left nearby residents feeling frustrated and upset.

The ruckus is caused by stacking reinforced steel columns, and it has been noted that a layer of dust resulting from persistent rock-breaking activities, settled on the solar panels of neighboring homes.

In the near future, residents can expect a reduction in the noise level, as a builder on-site informed the newspaper.

‘We are just about done with the noise,’ the builder said.

‘That’s everyone’s Christmas present.’ 

Andy and Rebecca have ambitious plans for their Italianate manor, Ravenswood. 

The renovation, which started last year, is estimated to cost $5 million. 

Since 2021, the comedian has been tirelessly renovating the dilapidated mansion in Melbourne that he purchased, with plans for a renovation similar to those seen on popular home improvement shows.

Andy Lee and Rebecca Harding slammed by neighbours for 'horrendous' renovations of their Melbourne mansion as the couple swan off to New York: 'He has lost a lot of community goodwill'
Andy Lee and Rebecca Harding slammed by neighbours for 'horrendous' renovations of their Melbourne mansion as the couple swan off to New York: 'He has lost a lot of community goodwill'

Andy and Rebecca won council approval for their development application back in June last year.

The proposed design for the location involves constructing an additional structure. This new building will be linked to the existing Italian-style villa, dating back to approximately 1876, via a subterranean passageway.

Among other features, the 1950-square meter property will also boast a private cinema, fitness center, indoor pool, and an expansive master suite.

According to a statement given to The Herald Sun, Boroondara Council has made the decision to approve a planning permit for the property located at Yarra Grove.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Andy Lee for comment.

While the construction continues, Andy and Rebecca are currently enjoying a winter in New York.

The couple is essentially combining vacation time and work as they set up an Australian-style pub right in New York City’s bustling center, with Andy taking the lead on this project.

Old Mates Pub, as it’s known, is a collaborative endeavor among three individuals: Andy, a renowned figure from the Australian Football League; Nick Stone, a former AFL star; and Eddy Buckhigham, an expatriate Aussie who oversees the popular Manhattan eatery, Chinese Tuxedo.

Andy Lee and Rebecca Harding slammed by neighbours for 'horrendous' renovations of their Melbourne mansion as the couple swan off to New York: 'He has lost a lot of community goodwill'
Andy Lee and Rebecca Harding slammed by neighbours for 'horrendous' renovations of their Melbourne mansion as the couple swan off to New York: 'He has lost a lot of community goodwill'

This week, Andy shared on Instagram about his upcoming project, posting a collection of pictures showcasing the venue that will soon be open for business.

‘Super EXCITED for this,’ he captioned the photos.

Following the shutdown of the last Australian pub in Manhattan due to COVID-19, some friends and I felt it necessary to establish a new gathering place.

He continued: ‘Aussies in NYC need a place to have a crisp cold Australian beer, to watch the AFL & NRL Finals, to cheer on the Matildas and watch The Ashes.

Andy also joked that the bringing the bar to live had been a one-man job.

He mentioned that it had been a three-year endeavor for him, using only his own labor, similar to how Noah constructed the house in The Notebook.

‘If you don’t believe me, see the last picture where I’m clearly holding a drill.’

To wrap up my latest piece, I’m thrilled to share some exciting news – Old Mates will be opening its doors just in time for Australia Day, marking January 24th on our calendar!

Additionally, Andy posted a picture where both he and Rebecca, with smiles as wide as can be, were seen enjoying their ride on the subway.

The pair donned attire suitable for the cold season, and the jovial fellow titled the image simply: “Returning to NYC.

Andy and Rebecca announced their engagement in August after 10 years together 

Andy Lee and Rebecca Harding slammed by neighbours for 'horrendous' renovations of their Melbourne mansion as the couple swan off to New York: 'He has lost a lot of community goodwill'

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2024-12-12 02:36

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