Russell Crowe's April 7 nuptials to longtime love Danielle Spencer have all the makings of a dream wedding. The three-day celebrations, which will take place on the actor's birthday at his ranch near Coffs Harbour, are rumoured to include everything from lavish banquets and a love poem written by the A Beautiful Mind star, to a cricket match starring the groom's cousins, former New Zealand cricketers Martin and Jeff Crowe.
However, the near-perfect plans may have hit a snag. Though the ceremony is just days away, the local council has yet to approve the custom-built chapel where the couple plan to tie the knot.
Nicknamed "St Russell's Basilica" and "Sacre Crowe", the structure includes alterations not included in Russell's original building application. Council general manager Mark Ferguson said inspectors will take a look at the site this week, adding: "From our point of view it is not a major issue". However, council building manager Mark Salter reportedly told Britain's Sun newspaper: "We'll demolish it if it doesn't comply with regulations."
Meanwhile, the actor's publicist confirms 80 close friends and family members, among them Gladiator director Ridley Scott, will be present for the high-profile event. Rumours that guests would include Hollywood stars Nicole Kidman, Heath Ledger, Naomi Watts and Jodie Foster were quashed – Russell's representative has said they will not be attending.