The owner of a listed £8.5million Mayfair townhouse dating back to the 18th Century has been ordered to destroy an illegal 'iceberg' basement.
The extensive alterations include a gym, sauna and cinema room beneath the historic property, which was built in 1729 and is very close to Hyde Park.
Westminster Council said the owner of the home, which was once owned by the 2nd Duke of Westminster, was denied planning permission for the basement but went ahead regardless.
The application was originally refused in 2010, after planning officials agreed with the council that it would harm the building's 'special architectural and historic interest'.
Council officials served a notice requiring the in-filling of the basement in February 2023. An appeal against the decision by the home's Italian owner was not successful.
