Michael Owen wants to protect his privacy

But before he moves in, he sought planning permission for a sophisticated electronic gate system to keep people away from the property.

He decided on the extra security measures after reports that people had driven to the Soughton Hall to take a closer look at where their idol will live with his girlfriend.

Owen also plans to build a new swimming pool and fitness centre and has plans for a snooker room and new horse stables.

He appears to be a nice lad who will get on with people in the village

Mel Higham, Northop councillor

The England striker is said to have purchased an extra 30 acres alongside the hall, from former Redrow company boss Steven Morgan, to keep the animals.

The 22-year-old also plans to renovate the garden back to its former glory.

Northop councillor Mel Higham said Owen will be welcome in the neighbourhood.

"We're looking forward to Michael joining our community.

Snooker room

"He's a local lad from Hawarden who will get on with people in the village."

Mr Higham said: "I am quite supportive of his actions as my father was a gardener at the Hall in the 1930s."

The application has been submitted to Flintshire County Council and a decision will not be made for some months.

A council spokeswoman said: "Because it is a listed building, there will be some involvement from Cadw, the Welsh ancient monuments organisation."

Last year, he spent �750,000 on new homes for his entire family to live in Ewloe, down the road from his home village of Hawarden.

Owen currently lives in a purpose-built �200,000 modern house nearby.