On Saturday, May 23, 2026, fresh reports revealed that Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja have purchased five flats near their luxury London home, triggering complaints from local residents who worry the move is aimed at creating housing for their staff. The couple’s linked company acquired the properties in a block right beside their grand Notting Hill mansion.
The high-profile pair already owns a stunning 200-year-old property in the upscale area, bought for around £21 million. Plans to redevelop the mansion include major changes like adding a basement swimming pool and basketball court. Over recent years, a separate firm connected to them spent more than £4 million to secure five out of 23 flats in the adjoining Hillcrest building, along with a garage in some accounts.
Locals expressed concern that the purchases could transform their residential community into staff quarters for the wealthy couple. One upset neighbour described the shift as moving from a lively neighbourhood to living beside servant housing. Some residents mentioned receiving communications suggesting possible social tenants if objections continued, adding tension to the situation. The development has divided opinions in the trendy Notting Hill district, known for its mix of cultures and celebrities.
Sonam Kapoor, a beloved Bollywood personality with millions of followers, and her businessman husband Anand Ahuja, part of a successful apparel family, have been steadily building their presence in London. The main mansion, originally acquired through Anand’s father Harish Ahuja, will serve as their primary residence after extensive renovation while keeping the outer walls intact. This latest expansion through flat purchases has put the spotlight on how ultra-rich newcomers are reshaping premium neighbourhoods.
While some view the buys as smart investments in a hot property market, others fear it reduces the sense of community in the block. The story highlights ongoing debates about wealth, property control, and lifestyle changes in exclusive parts of London. Supporters point out that many wealthy owners provide housing for household help close by for convenience. The couple’s team has reportedly described the flats as pure investment choices without direct personal involvement from Sonam in day-to-day matters. This episode adds another chapter to the couple’s high-end real estate journey across London and Mumbai.
