Development row over Profumo scandal estate

Nearly half a century after it provided the backdrop to a scandal that rocked the nation, Cliveden is at the centre of another public outcry.

The 376-acre estate, where cabinet minister John Profumo was introduced to Christine Keeler, is the subject of a bitterly contested planning application to build 191 modern homes less than a mile from the Grade I listed country house.

Today planners are expected to agree to the National Trust's plans for its property. The trust argues it needs to raise funds for the upkeep of the house.

Its plans involve developing 17 acres of parkland into a housing estate, mixing luxury private houses with

affordable housing. But many local people are furious about the design of the new houses.

Lorna Parkins, clerk of the local Taplow parish council, said: "This is simply not in tune with the area."