Residents near North Mymms Park in Hertfordshire have raised complaints over the increasing use of the historic Elizabethan mansion as a filming location. The estate, which has appeared in productions such as Netflix’s Bridgerton, The Crown, Wonka, and the BBC comedy-drama Ludwig, is the subject of a dispute over traffic disruptions, safety concerns, and environmental impacts related to film shoots.

Local residents report that convoys of film vehicles have passed through narrow local lanes at late hours, with some citing activity as late as 3 a.m. One neighbour described security personnel managing vehicles around 4:30 a.m. Complaints also include the use of high-powered cars causing traffic delays, accompanied by repeated engine revving.

Another significant concern involves the use of artificial smoke during filming. One resident stated that a recent shoot generated a substantial volume of theatrical smoke with a strong, gas-like smell that was detectable up to a mile away. Such occurrences have raised unease among the community regarding both health and safety.

The issues have prompted North Mymms Parish Council to formally object to the estate’s current filming operations. The council’s objection highlights road safety risks from blocking narrow lanes, endangering pedestrians and dog walkers, and creating an intimidating atmosphere that deters residents from using nearby walking routes. Additional concerns include late-night crowds and loud music associated with the filming activities.

The estate is currently seeking retrospective planning permission from Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council to permit continued commercial filming. Representatives for the property maintain that filming happens only occasionally, disputing claims of excessive frequency or disturbance.

Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council is expected to review the objections before making a decision on whether to approve the application, balancing the estate’s filming activity with the concerns raised by the local community.