Foxtons billionaire Jon Hunt in bitter battle with French government over mega-basement

Foxtons’ billionaire founder Jon Hunt wants to turn his mega-basement into a museum for his collection of vintage cars – but the nearby French embassy isn’t happy.

The French government has launched a legal tirade against Hunt claiming that certificates granted by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea for completion of the property mogul’s project are invalid.

In 2008, the Hunts got planning permission to start work on their Grade II listed mansion in Kensington. Then in 2011, freehold owners of the property Crown Estates gave them a licence for excavations.

According to The Daily Telegraph, Robert Griffiths QC, appearing for the French authorities, claimed that the development certificates granted to the Hunts has a number of discrepancies including lack of consultation.

However, Paul Brown QC, appearing for the Hunts, said they were “acting lawfully” and that “they have permission”.