Barry Gibb, legendary frontman of the Bee Gees, has announced a £10 million personal investment to build “Harmony Haven,” a sanctuary for stray dogs and cats in the UK.

Barry Gibb

The emotional reveal, made during a surprise appearance on a BBC One special, sparked a wave of admiration worldwide. Gibb, 79, said his mission is to create a place “where love is lived, where the forgotten are remembered, and where every creature is given the peace they were denied.”

The sanctuary will be built on a 70-acre estate in Surrey, combining world-class veterinary care with a peaceful environment for animals who have known only fear and rejection. Planned features include private indoor/outdoor cottages for dogs, “cat chalets,” a full-service veterinary hospital, dedicated care for traumatized or elderly animals, adoption lounges, and “Robin’s Garden” — a memorial to Gibb’s late brother and fellow Bee Gee, Robin.

Gibb’s devotion to animals stretches back decades, with his Buckinghamshire home long serving as a quiet refuge for rescues. He says the idea for Harmony Haven was sparked during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he reflected on the loneliness of stray animals and his desire to give them comfort and companionship. What began as a private donation to a local shelter evolved into a vision of a permanent sanctuary that offers healing, dignity, and forever homes.

The project has drawn praise from fans, celebrities, and animal welfare organizations alike. Paul McCartney called it “beautiful” in a heartfelt Instagram tribute, while Dolly Parton described it as “music in motion.” The RSPCA and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home hailed it as a “historic investment” in animal welfare. Social media lit up with the hashtag #HarmonyHaven, as supporters shared their admiration for Gibb’s compassion.

For Gibb, Harmony Haven is more than a retirement passion project — it’s a legacy. He plans for the sanctuary to continue long after his lifetime, even announcing a scholarship program for aspiring veterinarians and animal care specialists in partnership with UK universities. He hopes the project will inspire the next generation to approach animal welfare with empathy, skill, and dedication.

In a touching moment during the BBC broadcast, Gibb performed a reimagined version of “How Deep Is Your Love,” rewritten for the animals he hopes to save. The performance moved the audience to tears, with Gibb noting, “This song isn’t for charts. It’s for those who’ve never been sung to.” His words underscored the deep emotional connection driving the project.

Harmony Haven is expected to open in early 2027, with a grand inauguration featuring musical performances and tributes to rescue stories from around the world. Gibb hopes the sanctuary will serve not only as a safe haven for animals, but also as a place where visitors can rediscover the power of kindness.

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