“Pirates of the Caribbean” star Johnny Depp has crossed swords with city officials over a proposed Sunset Strip commercial development project the actor says would block the scenic view from part of his Hollywood Hills estate.
Depp contends in a lawsuit that the city of West Hollywood violated environmental quality laws by approving development of retail shops, a restaurant and a parking structure on a lot beneath his gated, 2 1/2-acre property.
He also argues the project would block the view his two children have while playing on a terrace outside their 7,430-square-foot home.
Developer Joseph Emrani of Venice Investments argued that the youngsters — Lily-Rose, 6, and Jack, 4 — are being raised in France, where he and French actress and singer Vanessa Paradis also have a home.
Depp’s attorney declined to discuss the case.
A Los Angeles County Superior Court judge ruled against Depp last year. The case is being appealed on his behalf by his sister, Christi Dembrowski, who is also Depp’s personal assistant and president of his film production company.